The theatre department will hold two days of open auditions for students and community members interested in joining the casts of three upcoming spring semester productions.

The theatre department’s spring lineup includes productions of Peter Schaffer’s Tony Award-winning play ‘Equus,’ the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning play ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ by Wendy Wasserstein, and a collection of 10 original works selected for inclusion in the college’s annual New Works Festival.

In all, more than 30 roles are available for actors age 18 to 50.

Those interested in auditioning for one or all of the department’s spring productions should prepare a one- to two-minute modern or contemporary monologue and attend one of two open audition dates: Monday, Feb. 6, or Tuesday, Feb. 7.

Actors will be asked to read sides from the specific plays during callback auditions on Wednesday, Feb. 8, (‘Equus’) and Thursday, Feb. 9, (‘The Heidi Chronicles’).

All audition dates will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) Black Box Theater, located on the Valencia campus.

“These are each powerful productions,” said COC theatre department chair Paul Wickline. “We are looking for a range of actors that will be able to form a strong ensemble cast and help bring this material to life for our audiences.”

Equus

Following the disturbing journey of a young man who seems to have a passion for horses, but who is harboring darker desires, ‘Equus’ originally opened at the National Theatre in 1973 to worldwide acclaim.

The production contains four male and four female roles, with an additional six actors of either sex needed to act as the chorus and portray the horses. All speaking roles will require a British dialect, but actors do not need to audition with an accent.

In addition, the main roles of Alan Strang and Jill Mason may require brief on-stage nudity, requiring actors to be 18 or older. However, these scenes will not be included in the audition process.

“The roles of the chorus are essential to this production,” Wickline said. “We also need to find actors who can move well on stage with the strength and stamina necessary to portray the horses.”

Performances of ‘Equus’ are scheduled to run on the PAC main stage May 17 to 20, 2012.

The Heidi Chronicles

Chronicling the glory days of the feminist movement, ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ follows the character of art historian Heidi Holland over a 25-year period beginning in the 1960s and ending in the “having-it-all” era of the late 1980s.

By focusing on the lives of Heidi and her group of closest friends, ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ comically portrays the cast of characters’ range of experiences against the backdrop of the turbulent but transformative political and social changes taking place around them.

The production contains roles for five men and three women.

“This play spans 25 years in the lives of the characters, so the actors who are cast must be very versatile, with the ability to psychologically, physically and vocally create the subtle changes seen in the characters throughout the years,” Wickline said. “We are looking for a strong ensemble for this production.”

Performances of ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ are scheduled to run March 28 through April 1, 2012 in the PAC Black Box Theater.

New Works Festival

The annual New Works Festival is a collaboration between the college’s theatre and English departments, which gives aspiring playwrights — from the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond — the opportunity to see their work brought to life through a unique workshop experience that focuses on taking the writer’s work to the next level.

Using a blind-reading process, nine playwrights were selected to have their works developed for this year’s festival. Subjects for the plays chosen include a long-lost father, wedding jitters, zombie romance, illicit professions, cops and robbers, crazy burning love, and talk show hosts.

The festival has roles for 15 actors aged 18 to 50.

“Ten excellent scripts by nine playwrights have been selected,” Wickline said. “Now we need to find a strong ensemble of actors to play the variety of characters within these scripts.”

​

Art Gallery Presents Works of Abstract Expressionist Hans Burkhardt

January 20, 2012

As the first exhibition of 2012, the College of the Canyons Art Gallery will present a collection of work by the influential, Los Angeles-based artist Hans Burkhardt, whose varied and ever-changing body of work has been credited with emotionally enhancing the Modernist art movement.

Having immigrated to New York from Switzerland in 1924, Burkhardt participated in the genesis of what would become the “New York School” and the beginning of the Abstract Expressionist movement.

The artist’s work shifted upon his move to Los Angeles in 1937, as Burkhardt expanded his abstract expressionist style, with his unique expansive vision and poignant response to the human experience.

With his works regularly taking the form of profound war protests, Burkhardt produced pieces in response to nearly every war of the 20th Century, including the Spanish Civil War, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and various conflicts in Central America and the Middle East.

Though somewhat controversial in their time, Burkhardt’s paintings have been described by art historians as “among the greatest war paintings — especially modern war paintings, made,” with Burkhardt himself hailed as “Goya’s spiritual heir” and someone who “metamorphoses the experience of war and violence into works of beauty.”

However, Burkhardt simultaneously created works that also expressed his own feelings of celebration and hope, prompting the artist to once comment “I paint the way I live,” and refer to his paintings as “the fierce ones and the happy ones.”

“The Expansive Vision of Hans Burkhardt: Drawings of an American Master” opens Tuesday, Jan. 24, and will run through Thursday, March 1. The exhibition has been made possible thanks to The Hans G. & Thordis W. Burkhardt Foundation, in partnership with Jack Rutberg Fine Arts.

A special Grand Opening of the exhibition will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, in the COC Art Gallery. In addition, a unique guest speaking engagement featuring Jack Rutberg and guest curator Richard Shelton will take place from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9.

“We are very fortunate indeed to have this magnificent loan of historic Hans Burkhardt drawings from Jack Rutberg Fine Arts,” said Larry Hurst, COC Art Gallery director. “This generous loan of drawings spans the years 1930 to 1988, and will provide a museum quality experience for our students, staff and community members.”

The College of the Canyons Art Gallery is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Those unable to visit the gallery during normal hours are welcome to call (661) 362-3612 to schedule a viewing appointment. All gallery exhibitions and related events are free and open to the public.

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New Partnership to Establish SBDC Location in the Antelope Valley

January 3, 2012

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) hosted by College of the Canyons has entered into a new partnership with the University of Antelope Valley (UAV) to establish a second full-time SBDC location on the UAV campus.

The new Antelope Valley Small Business & Entrepreneurship Center will open Thursday, Jan. 5, following an 11 a.m. press conference in the UAV Grand Ballroom, 44073 N. Sierra Hwy., Lancaster.

This partnership will provide a permanent location on the UAV campus for SBDC business advisers to meet with clients and begin conducting classroom and computer-based training sessions and free business consulting services.

SBDC business advisers also will be able to utilize UAV computer labs to offer different types of hands-on computer training. The partnership also will allow the SBDC to begin hosting more large-scale regional training events and seminars.

“The opening of this center represents yet another significant step in our efforts to bring an expanded lineup of SBDC services to the Antelope Valley,” said SBDC Director Steve Tannehill. “We are very appreciative of the support we have received from our partners in the Antelope Valley, including the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale, Wells Fargo Bank and now the University of Antelope Valley. With their support and partnership we have been able to substantially increase our presence in the Antelope Valley, resulting in an almost 60 percent increase in our services over the past year.”

In 2011, those increased services helped Antelope Valley small business owners raise more than $1.1 million in capital, while creating 157 new jobs and starting three new businesses.

“We are so excited about having the SBDC here at the University of Antelope Valley,” said Sandra Johnson, co-founder and CEO of UAV. “The SBDC provides excellent services in which Antelope Valley residents and our students alike can utilize in fulfilling their dreams of business ownership. This partnership aligns our goals as educators with the entrepreneurial spirit the Antelope Valley is known for, and we cannot wait to see the new businesses and jobs created from this opportunity.”

To help launch this new partnership, the SBDC will host a series of free training sessions at its UAV location:

How to Successfully Start Your New Business

10 a.m. to noon

Friday, Jan. 13, 2012

Essential Steps for Writing a Business Plan

10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 27, 2012

Finding Funding

10 a.m. to noon

Friday, Feb. 10, 2012

About the University of Antelope Valley

Located in the City of Lancaster, the University of Antelope Valley is a small, private university, founded in 1997. The mission of UAV is to offer higher education to the local community through the delivery of quality online and on-ground career specific certificate, undergraduate, graduate and continuing educational programs.

About the SBDC hosted by College of the Canyons

The SBDC hosted by College of the Canyons was launched in January 2006. SBDC business advisors assist prospective and existing small business owners in starting, retaining or expanding their businesses by providing workshops, one-on-one consulting, and many other resources to the business community.

The SBDC’s main offices are located in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on the College of the Canyons Valencia campus.

For more information about the SBDC hosted by College of the Canyons or the Antelope Valley Small Business & Entrepreneurship Center, contact the SBDC at (661) 362-5900.

​FEBRUARY

Speakers Symposium Series Showcases Sciences, Technologies

February 28, 2012

The Mathematics, Sciences & Engineering (MSE) Division will present its first annual Speakers Symposium Series by hosting a series of science- and technology-orientated speaking engagements throughout the spring 2012 semester.

The MSE Speakers Symposium Series is designed to give students and community members an opportunity to meet renowned research scientists and industry experts working in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. In addition to learning more about each speaker’s research and particular area of expertise, attendees will also be able to explore the myriad career options available in these emerging fields.

Each of the four scheduled speaking engagements will consist of a roughly 60- to 90-minute presentation, culminating in an open-forum discussion that will allow audience members to ask questions, interact with the speakers and delve deeper into the subject matter.

“The goal of the Speakers Symposium Series is to be able to present subject matter that is relevant to what our students are currently learning, but which goes above and beyond the classroom,” said Omar Torres, dean of the Mathematics, Sciences & Engineering (MSE) Division. “In doing so, we hope to stimulate a greater community interest in the STEM fields and introduce students of all ages to the virtually endless career possibilities available in these areas.”

Presentations will take place at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays throughout the spring semester in Aliso Hall, Room 101, located on the Valencia campus. All scheduled events are free of charge and open to the public, but seating may be limited.

Abstract: Excitement surrounds reports of more efficient, less expensive developments in solar photovoltaic materials and devices. But what are some of the new solar power technologies expected to contribute to society, both in the near and distant future? What are some of the roadblocks associated with developing these technologies? And what lessons can be learned from other technological fields, which utilize similar materials and devices? All of these issues and many more will be addressed, in this exciting conversation about the ongoing developments associated with solar cell applications.

March 20

Advanced Development Programs, Skunk Works

Dr. Robert R. Boyd — Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

Abstract: Dr. Boyd will share an overview of some of the recent technological advances underway at the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Advanced Development Programs, or ‘Skunk Works’ division. Specific focus will be placed on Boyd’s work to help develop a hybrid aircraft — dubbed the P-791 — which could be used for both transportation and surveillance applications. An overview of this new aeronautical technology and some of its more technical aspects will also be included in the overall discussion of this project.

March 27

A View at an Early Stage Oncology Program: AKT

Dr. Erich Wohlhieter — Amgen

Abstract: This presentation will take attendees through a discovery phase medicinal chemistry project, from conception to structure activity relationship, culminating with lead identification and xenograft studies. Project rational, target biology, synthetic chemistry and molecular modeling will all be touched on. An overview of the drug discovery process will also be discussed.

April 24 (panel presentation)

Antibody Drug Conjugates: The Targeted Delivery of Chemotherapeutics to Tumors

Dr. Dowdy Jackson — Agensys

Abstract: The diversity of cancers and cancer subtypes presents several challenges to developing effective forms of treatments. Cancer patients are commonly treated with toxic drugs, known as chemotherapy, which kill both normal and cancerous cells. The goal of the next generation of cancer therapies is to develop effective therapies that target the tumors and not the healthy tissues. Dr. Jackson’s work involves the development of these types of treatments that can deliver chemotherapeutic drugs directly to the tumors, while minimizing the unwanted side effects. The development, use of and challenges associated with these new types of cancer treatments will all be discussed.

April 24 (panel presentation)

​Development of Monoclonal Antibodies as Therapeutic Agents

Dr. Kendall Morrison — Agensys

Abstract: The use of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) has become a well established treatment for various types of ailments, including inflammatory, transplantation related, oncological, cardiovascular and infectious diseases. Technological advances in antibody engineering have overcome the limitations of early murine MAbs, so that the antibodies used for today’s drugs resemble those made naturally by the human body, and as a consequence, are better tolerated with fewer unwanted side effects. Furthermore, antibody-engineering technologies are constantly emerging, allowing researchers to better fine tune these procedures. This presentation will include discussion about the origins and history, use and continued development of MAbs, and their profound impact on the field of medicine.

​

University Center to Hold Open House on March 20

February 24, 2012

College of the Canyons will host an open house at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 20. The event is designed to highlight new programs being introduced in 2012 and provide information to prospective students about how they can earn bachelor's or master’s degrees without ever leaving the Santa Clarita Valley.

Cited as the solution to the lack of upper-division, graduate school and continuing educations programs in the Santa Clarita Valley, the University Center was created to increase student access to advanced degrees by forging partnerships with four-year colleges and universities.

Open house attendees will be able to learn about the various educational opportunities offered by the University Center’s partner institutions, as well as speak to university representatives, meet with counselors, fill out applications, learn about financial aid options and tour the University Center’s classrooms and facilities.

The University Center hosts 38 programs offered by California State University (CSU) Bakersfield, CSU Northridge, CSU Los Angeles, University of La Verne, Brandman University (formerly Chapman University) and National University.

Available at the University Center for the first time in 2012 are:

• MS Criminal Justice (National University)

• Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate Program (National University)

• BA Sports Psychology (National University)

• MS School Psychology (University of La Verne)

• BS Engineering with an emphasis in Manufacturing (CSU Los Angeles)

The open house will take place in the University Center lobby, located on the COC Valencia campus.

​

New Fitness Walk, Seminar Series Launches on March 2

February 21, 2012

This spring, the College of the Canyons SNAC (Student Nutrition Advocates at COC) group is encouraging students and community members to experience the many benefits of leading a healthy lifestyle, with the launch of its new Body, Mind, Wellness (BMW) Fitness Walk and Seminar Series.

Coinciding with national nutrition month, the spring semester BMW Fitness Walk and Seminar Series will include two community-wide educational fitness walks through the college’s new on-campus Gardens of the Canyons areas, along with four scheduled seminar discussions taking place throughout March and April.

The goal of the BMW Fitness Walk and Seminar Series is to provide participants with information about the various lifestyle behaviors that promote health, happiness, and optimal performance in all aspects of their life — school, sport and work included!

“We want to use this year’s BMW Fitness Walk and Seminar Series to facilitate a greater sense of collaboration within the community, in terms of personal health and wellness,” said Sheri Barke, COC sports and wellness dietitian and SNAC group advisor. “Hopefully these events will also help raise awareness about the college’s garden areas, so that other community groups and organizations can begin utilizing these valuable resources.”

As the main event in the spring BMW series, the college will host a community-wide educational fitness walk from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, March 8, on the COC Valencia campus.

Beginning at the main check-in station located in front of the campus’ Student Center, the roughly 1.5-mile fitness walk will allow participants to walk through the Valencia campus, at their own pace, while making stops at six educational stations along the route.

At each station, participants will be asked to check in and complete a short wellness activity. Those who complete the walk, along with all associated activities, will be awarded a special prize at the conclusion of the event.

Sheri Barke, COC sports and wellness dietitian and SNAC group advisor, will teach attendees how to fuel their bodies for optimal exercise training, performance and recovery.

Sustainable & Healthy Eating Seminar

12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 15

Boykin Hall, Room 105

Presenters McKenzie Hall, RD and Lisa Dixon, RD, co-founders of the nutrition communications company NourishRds, will share practical tips (and delicious samples) about how to incorporate more wholesome foods into your diet. The presentation will be followed by a brief tour of the planned site of the college’s Community Garden area.

Presenters Tammy Bathke, COC nursing program assistant director; Darlene Mininni, author of “The Emotional Toolkit: Seven Power-Skills to Nail Your Bad Feelings”; and Garrett Hooper, COC academic counselor will explore the science and practice of meditation to enhance one’s physical and emotional health, and performances associated with school, work and sports. The presentation will be accompanied by a meditation and stress management resource fair from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the day of the event, with local businesses on hand to offer their services to attendees.

Canyon Country Campus, Educational Fitness Walk #2

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 12

Canyon Country Campus (on-campus check in location TBD)

The roughly 1.5-mile fitness walk will allow participants to walk through the Canyon Country campus, at their own pace, while making stops at four educational stations along the route.

Fitness Myths & Truths Seminar

12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19

Boykin Hall, Room 105

COC strength and conditioning coach Robert dos Remedios will teach attendees the finer points of creating a personalized fitness program that will work for them.

All of the BMW Fitness Walk and Seminar Series events and activities are free and open to the public.

​

2012 Women’s Conference on March 17 to Focus on Transitions

February 10, 2012

College of the Canyons invites women from across the Santa Clarita Valley to participate in an inspirational, hands-on day of information and support designed to empower them to successfully make important transitions in their lives during the 2012 COC Women’s Conference. The event is sponsored by Boston Scientific, Valencia Neuromodulation.

Recognizing that transition is a constant factor in both a women’s personal and professional life, event organizers have focused this year’s Women’s​Conference around five key information strands: Business, Education, Career Exploration, Financial Planning and Women’s Health.

Attendees will have access to a variety of interactive breakout sessions, each led by a local subject expert or industry professional who will share inspirational stories of triumph and success, along with tips and information about how to:

• Match your skill set with a new career

• Receive job training

• Create an effective resume

• Prepare for an job interview

• Start your own successful business

• Achieve financial peace and plan for retirement

• Improve your overall health and wellness

“The challenges women face in their lives often require them to consider new paths that may take their family, career and personal life into unchartered territories,” said Deborah Rio, the college’s Dean of Enrollment Services and chair of the conference. “College of the Canyons wants to provide the women, and men, in our community with a day dedicated to overcoming those challenges and provide them with the resources needed to transition to new ways of thinking that will allow them to realize their potential.”

The 2012 College of the Canyons Women’s Conference is scheduled 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 17, at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located at the Valencia campus.

Admission is $15 per person and includes access to the entire conference, including any three morning breakout sessions, a continental breakfast and entrance to the post-conference Resource Fair.

Resource Fair attendees will have additional opportunities to meet with conference presenters and network with representatives from various college departments and community organizations dedicated to helping individuals reach their career development goals, including:

• Apple One Staffing

• Sage Staffing

• Santa Clarita WorkSource Center

• Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center

• College of the Canyons Career Services

• College of the Canyons Career Technical Education

• College of the Canyons Fast Track Institute

• College of the Canyons Cooperative Work Experience Education (CWEE) internship program

• College of the Canyons Volunteer Bureau

• Single Mother’s Outreach

A selection of woman-owned gourmet food trucks, with food available for purchase, will also be on hand during this portion of the event.

“We look forward to interacting with other women in our community,” added Rio, “on a day that promises to be uplifting, informative, inspirational and fun.”

For more information or to register to attend, follow the link below or contact the Women’s Conference event desk at (661) 362-3044. For information about becoming an event sponsor, contact Cathy Ritz, chair of the Women’s Conference sponsorship committee, at (661) 362-3639.

Subject: Providence Holy Cross Medical Center has extended its partnership with the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons to provide continued sponsorship and support of the PAC’s ongoing K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program.

Event: Representatives from Providence Holy Cross Medical Center will present the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program with a $10,000 check during a brief on-stage ceremony being held prior to the educational bus-in performance of the show TAO: The Art of the Drum, to be attended by more than 700 local elementary school students.

The PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program uses the college’s cultural and community resources to provide SCV students an opportunity to benefit from top-tier visual and performing arts (VAPA) curriculum and learning opportunities. Since its inception the K-12 Arts Outreach Program has taken a collaborative approach, with PAC organizers partnering with teachers and administrators in school districts throughout the SCV in order to reach as many students as possible. As a result, the program continues to provide arts-infused curriculum and unique educational opportunities for students throughout the SCV.

When: 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 13, 2012

Location: The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) main stage, located on the College of the Canyons Valencia campus.

​

College Awarded ‘Center for International Trade Development’ Designation

February 3, 2012​

College of the Canyons has received approval from the state Chancellor’s Office to establish a Center for International Trade Development (CITD). This new program will be operated in collaboration with the Small Business Development Center hosted by College of the Canyons (SBDC), opening the doors to begin providing resources, training sessions, expert business advice and consulting services in the areas of international trade.

The CITD system was established in 1998 to help promote the state’s high capacity for international trade competitiveness, assist exporter/importers excel in the international market and continually advance the state’s economic and job growth.

With nine offices located across the state, California CITDs provide a full range of either free or low cost trade assistance services to both companies and individuals looking to expand their international business presence.

“College of the Canyons is committed to the ongoing economic development of our community,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook. “This new opportunity will add a key component to our outstanding menu of services and greatly assist local companies as they expand into new markets.”

As a newly designated CITD, the college’s goal will be to help small business owners and entrepreneurs progress through the various stages of export/import trade development in order to help those businesses grow and succeed.

“We are acutely aware of the need and desire of most of our small business clients to grow sales,” said SBDC director Steve Tannehill who will also serve as CITD director. “For a number of them, the opportunity exists to grow sales by selling into international markets. Accessing those markets can be tricky. Joining the CITD network provides us immediate access to a wealth of resources to help our small business clients start or expand their sales to international markets.”

To launch this new program, in January the SBDC partnered with CITD to host a free Trade Connect Export Workshop at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

Geared toward small business owners and entrepreneurs interested in expanding their businesses through exporting, the event included presentations by representatives from the Port of Los Angeles, Los Angeles World Airports, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) who were on hand to discuss a number of key topics and issues including how to:

• Locate overseas customers

• Finance and insure exporting operations

• Secure air and sea cargo services

• Educate staff about the processes of international trade

The workshop attracted nearly 70 attendees, with many staying well past the end of the event to network with presenters and gather additional information about how to successfully enter the international trade arena.

“Several of our guest speakers indicated this was the most successful Trade Connect event they have ever held in Los Angles County,” said Dr. Dena Maloney, COC Vice President of the Canyon Country Campus and Economic Development. “More importantly, the event showcased the vast resources available to entrepreneurs and companies looking to expand their businesses internationally.

“We look forward to seeing a number of local businesses make 2012 the year they get involved in international trade,” added Maloney.

​

Cougar Football’s Latu Inks with Sooners on National Signing Day

February 1, 2012

On a day when high school and community college student-athletes across the country signed letters of intent, the College of the Canyons football team had one player who inked on Wednesday, this in addition to two others who signed prior to National Signing Day.

The Cougars’ most anticipated recruit from the 2011 team, offensive lineman Will Latu, decided to take his talents to the University of Oklahoma. Latu’s decision came after he contemplated offers from West Virginia University and Auburn University last year.

Cougar head football coach Garett Tujague was elated at the news.

“We are excited for Will’s decision, considering he had no Division I options after high school,” Tujague said. “To go from a Division II school to a premier community college program, to a formidable BCS (Bowl Championship Series) school, has got to be exciting.”

Latu spent two seasons with the College of the Canyons after transferring from Division II Northern State University in South Dakota.

Sophomore defensive lineman Nick Oliva and sophomore wide receiver Frankie Madero have already transferred from College of the Canyons, having signed letters of intent to play for New Mexico State and Dixie State College of Utah, respectively.

Oliva was the Cougars’ anchor among a group of defensive linemen who were all first-year freshmen. Oliva, a 2011 Defensive First-Team All-Conference honoree, recorded 32 tackles and 3.5 sacks last season and is the only other COC player from last year’s squad to transfer to a Division I Football Bowl Subdivision school thus far.

Madero had 11 catches for 117 yards and a score in 2011 while nursing an injury, but had 26 receptions for 285 yards during his freshman campaign.

Tujague expects more COC student-athletes to sign letters of intent following the completion of the spring and summer semesters.

The Associated Student Government (ASG) at College of the Canyons is inviting all students and community members to a public candidate forum of the four individuals seeking election to California’s 38th Assembly District seat this November.

The ASG-sponsored candidate forum will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 27, in the College of the Canyons cafeteria, located in the Valencia campus’ Student Center.

This event is free and open to the public and offers a chance for local voters to ask questions and make their voices heard in front of the pool of candidates that could potentially be serving as this region’s elected representative at the state level.

The forum will begin with each candidate delivering an opening statement, before being asked to answer several pre-formulated questions that will be directed toward all participants.

Members of the audience will then be able to submit questions that will be directed to the candidates by forum mediator and Santa Clarita Community College District (SCCCD) student trustee, Nick Onyshko.

To conclude the evening, candidates will have an opportunity to meet with attendees.

An invitation has been extended to each of the four candidates in the 38th Assembly District race: Edward Headington (D); Patricia McKeon (R); Paul Strickland (R); and Scott Wilk (R).

Headington and Wilk have indicated they will participate. Strickland and McKeon have declined the invitation.

The ASG is the representative voice of the students at College of the Canyons, and is the student organization responsible for coordinating social, cultural, educational and service programs for the campus.

For more information about the Associated Student Government sponsored 38th California Assembly District public candidate forum please contact COC student trustee Nick Onyshko at (661) 231-5011.

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Chancellor’s Business Symposium Explores Impact of Filming

March 21, 2012​​

The economic impact of the film and entertainment industries operating in the Santa Clarita Valley will be the topic of discussion during the College of the Canyons Chancellor’s Circle 2012 Annual Business Symposium.

Featuring an exciting lineup of guest speakers, this year’s Business Symposium event will provide attendees with valuable tips and information about how local business owners and organizations can begin doing business with the numerous film productions that visit the Santa Clarita Valley each month.

In addition, a forecast pertaining to the state of the entertainment industry in Santa Clarita, along with insights about some of the major projects scheduled to take place at Santa Clarita Studios in the coming months will be included.

Attendees will also have the option of touring the college’s state-of-the-art Media, Entertainment and Arts facility, Mentry Hall, to see first hand how COC is preparing students for careers in these vital local industries.

“Recent projections indicate that the film and entertainment industries will continue to play an important role in our local economy,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook. “The 2012 Annual Business Symposium will focus on the impact of these industries right here in Santa Clarita, which is a topic of great interest to our local business and community leaders.”

The 4th Annual Chancellor’s Circle Business Symposium will take place from 7:30 to 11 a.m. Friday, March 23, in Mentry Hall, Room 305, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

Breakfast will be served in the third-floor reception area on the south side of Mentry Hall at the start of the event. The lineup of scheduled speakers and presentation topics for the morning includes:

Laurie Ender, Mayor, City of Santa Clarita

Recent Santa Clarita Valley Film Projects

Richard Ballering, Vice President, Production Operations, ABC Studios

Film and Entertainment in the SCV: What Does the Future Hold?

Mike DeLorenzo, President, Santa Clarita Studios

Entertainment in the SCV and Current Projects at Santa Clarita Studios

Jim McClafferty, Supervising Location Manager, NCIS

How to Connect with the Film Industry

Registration for the Chancellor’s Circle Business Symposium is free for Chancellor’s Circle members and $25 for non-members. Tickets are available through the COC Foundation.

All reservations must be received by 3 p.m. Thursday, March 22. Space for this event is limited.

About the Chancellor’s Circle

The Chancellor’s Circle is a partnership between College of the Canyons and a diverse group of businesses, community members, non-profit groups, government leaders and others who are committed to strengthening the community by actively supporting strong partnerships.

Through their membership fees, Chancellor’s Circle members help raise funds to assist deserving students in affording college, as well as for special programs that enhance educational access for students.

For more information about the College of the Canyons Chancellor’s Circle or to register to attend the 2012 Annual Business Symposium please contact the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3737.

​

Comedians of the Canyons to Host Evening of Improv March 24

March 20, 2012​

The Theatre Department will host an evening of unscripted laughter and excitement as the college’s student improv troupe, Comedians of the Canyons, presents its first show of the spring semester.

Comprised entirely of student performers enrolled in the advanced improvisational performance theatre class, Comedians of the Canyons will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 24, in Pico Canyon Hall, Room 202, located on the Valencia campus.

“Every show is completely different and unpredictable,” said Allan Trautman, instructor and host of the show. “These performances tend to be packed with a very enthusiastic crowd, and we expect the first show of the semester to be a unique treat.”

The Comedians of the Canyons series has grown in popularity and enjoyed tremendous success in recent years, with students routinely performing to packed houses of comedy and improv enthusiasts.

“These are students who have gone beyond the basics of improv and are now ready for their hour in front of an audience,” said Trautman.

During each performance, scenes are made up on the spot using audience suggestions. There is no script and no safety net, which makes each performance both exhilarating and hilarious to watch.

“These improvisational performances are terrific opportunities for our students to test the performance skills they’ve learned in the classroom,” said Paul Wickline, chair of the TheatreDepartment.

All Comedians of the Canyons performances are free and open to the public. However, seating may be limited.

The second installment in the Comedians of the Canyons series will take place at 8 p.m. Saturday, April 28, in Pico Canyon Hall, Room 202.

Come relive the tumultuous times of an entire generation, during the College of the Canyons theatre department’s production of the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning play ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ by Wendy Wasserstein.

Chronicling the glory days of the feminist movement, ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ follows the character of art historian Heidi Holland over a 25-year period beginning in the 1960s and ending in the “having-it-all” era of the late 1980s.

By focusing on the lives of Heidi and her group of closest friends, ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ comically portrays the cast of characters’ range of collective experiences against the backdrop of the turbulent, but transformative, political and social changes taking place around them.

Originally published in 1988, ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ went on to receive the Pulitzer Prize for drama and both the Tony and New York Drama Critics’ Circle awards for best play.

“Presenting ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ offers a rare opportunity to look back at our not so distant struggles and consider how we did,” said Randee Trabitz, director of the production. “Although this play is certainly a chronicle of the emotional, political and social struggles of baby-boomer women in post-War America, the men portrayed here definitely have their hands full with the changes in society caused by the emergence of women.

“We invite the community to enjoy the sweet and humorous attempts of Heidi and her friends to help figure out what comes next in life, and hope that this production reminds us all that it was never easy.”

The College of the Canyons theatre department’s production of ‘The Heidi Chronicles’ will run for one weekend, Wednesday, March 28, through Sunday April 1, in the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) Black Box Theatre. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. March 28-31, and 2 p.m. April 1.

General admission tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for COC students and senior citizens.

This production contains adult language and mature content. Parental discretion is advised for children under the age of 13. Children under the ages of five will not be admitted into the theater.

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College to Present Scholarly Presentation on March 21

March 14, 2012​

College of the Canyons communication studies professor and speech team director Michael Leach will guide audiences through an evening of inner exploration and personal growth as he and members of the college’s national champion speech team present the spring 2012 Scholarly Presentation “Storytelling: Creating Your Personal Narrative.”

Providing an overview about the importance of storytelling and its many applications in today’s society, the presentation will primarily focus on the dramatic art of oral interpretation and its power to help individuals bring about their own personal growth.

Oral interpretation, or interpretation of literature, is a form of competitive speaking in which actors perform a roughly 10-minute story. By portraying a single character or even multiple characters, a performer works to reflectively interpret a piece of literature in front of a live audience.

“Oral interpretation began as simply reading from a book,” said Leach. “But as the art form has evolved, it has become acting.”

As part of the presentation, Leach will be joined by members of the COC speech team to show the process of how one’s own triumphs, tragedies and collective life experiences can be developed into a short story or poem. Those narratives will then be acted out live on stage.

“I’m a firm believer in the notion that you have to be able to write about who you’ve been, in order to know who you want to be,” said Leach. “Having created this system of writing and performing original stories based on the students’ own lives, we’re providing opportunities for them to develop or enhance their own analytical thinking abilities, creative writing skills and sense of charisma — all attributes that will allow them to be successful in virtually any professional or social arena.

“If you want to have an impact on somebody, especially in the professional world, you have to be able to figure out, what’s my personal narrative,” added Leach. “After all, that’s what you’re doing in a job interview. You’re telling a series of stories about why you should be hired.”

Leach holds a bachelor of arts in English from California State University, Northridge, and a master of arts incommunication studies from California State University, Los Angeles. In addition to teaching a variety of communication studies courses at the college, Leach has served as the director of the COC Speech Team since 2005.

Since his arrival, the team has garnered both state and nationwide recognition by bringing home at least one bronze, silver or gold medal at seven straight Phi Rho Pi National Speech Tournaments.

Last spring the COC speech team was awarded a school-record three medals, including the team’s first gold medal, at the Phi Rho Pi tournament, which annually attracts participants from more than 75 community colleges across the nation.

Having competed in various forms of speech competition throughout his college career, in 1990 Leach was honored with the Phi Rho Pi Bovero-Tabor award as the top speaker at that year’s national tournament. In 1994, Leach also won a National Championship for his performance of a multiple character program entitled “The Life of an Actor.”

Aside from his writing, speaking and acting pursuits, Leach has worked as a political consultant, professional photographer, local sports videographer and documentary filmmaker.

“Storytelling is our main form of communication as human beings. It’s how we communicate our experiences, how we personalize and humanize our ideas, and how we relate to each other,” said David Stevenson, chair of the college’s Scholarly Presentation committee. “I invite the entire community to come learn more about this fascinating subject and experience this form of oral interpretation for themselves.”

The College of the Canyons Scholarly Presentation “Storytelling: Creating Your Personal Narrative” is scheduled 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, on the main stage of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC).

Admission is free and open to the public. Doors open at 4 p.m., with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees can park for free in parking lots 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, located off Rockwell Canyon Road adjacent to the PAC.

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College of the Canyons to Host Women’s Conference this Weekend

March 14, 2012​

College of the Canyons will host a day of information, support and inspiration designed to empower attendees to successfully make important transitions in their lives, during this weekend’s COC Women’s Conference.

Sponsored by Boston Scientific, Valencia Neuromodulation, the 2012 College of the Canyons Women’s Conference will take place from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 17, at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

Admission to the event is $15 and includes access to the entire conference, including three morning breakout sessions of the attendee’s choice, a continental breakfast and entrance into the post-conference Resource Fair.

At the Resource Fair attendees will have additional opportunities to meet with conference presenters and network with representatives from various college departments and community organizations dedicated to helping individuals reach their career development goals.

“The challenges women face in their lives often require them to consider new paths that may take their family, career and personal life into unchartered territories,” said Deborah Rio, the college’s Dean of Enrollment Services and chair of the conference. “College of the Canyons wants to provide the women, and men, in our community with a day dedicated to overcoming those challenges and give them the resources needed to transition to new ways of thinking that will allow them to realize their potential.”

This year’s Women’s Conference will be focused around five key information strands: Business, Education, Career Exploration, Financial Planning and Women’s Health.

During the event attendees will have access to a variety of interactive breakout sessions, with each session led by a local subject expert or industry professional who will share their inspirational story of triumph and success — along with a plethora of helpful tips and information.

Due to the overwhelming popularity and success of the College of the Canyons Junior High Summer Institute, college officials have announced that the annual career exploration themed summer camps will also be offered to high school students beginning in summer 2012.

The College of the Canyons Summer Institute is open to students entering the seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth grades. The goal of the SummerInstitute is to provide hands-on career exploration and learning opportunities to students in a variety of areas and subjects including: culinary arts, robotics, motion picture special effects, video game design, sports medicine, welding and alternative energy fabrication.

All Summer Institute instructors are COC professors, student teachers or industry professionals that have tailored their curriculum with junior high and high school students in mind. Each track allows participating students to discover a multitude of career possibilities through a unique blend of innovative lesson plans and fun hands-on activities that are scheduled each week.

“The COC Summer Institute is much more than your typical summer camp,” said Adriana Estrada, Summer Institute coordinator. “It’s an opportunity for junior high and high school students to discover a potential career path, and have some fun at the same time. You don’t want to let your teenager miss out on this amazing experience.”

The 2012 COC Summer Institute will run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from July 16 through Aug. 3, and will consist of the following three one-week sessions:

• Monday, July 16 through Friday, July 20 — Junior High

• Monday, July 23 through Friday, July 27 — Junior High

• Monday, July 30 through Friday, Aug. 3 — High School

COC Summer Institute registration will be available beginning Wednesday, March 21.

Enrollment fees range in price from $160 to $180 per child per week, depending on each track’s associated materials fee.

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Art Gallery to Focus on Faculty in Upcoming Exhibition

March 7, 2012​

The Art Gallery will put the collective talents and artistic abilities of six COC faculty members on display during the upcoming exhibition titled “Faculty Focus.”

Featuring the work of COC faculty members James Lorigan, Rebecca Edwards and Michael McCaffrey (studio arts), Wendy Brill-Wynkoop (photography) and Kevin Jenkins and Mark Daybell (graphics and multimedia design), the exhibition will include two cutting-edge multimedia pieces, incorporating neon lights and sound, along with several examples of photography, drawing and acrylic painting.

“Exhibitions like the ‘Faculty Focus’ are an excellent opportunity for both students and community members to see the quality and variety of art being produced by the college’s talented arts faculty,” said Larry Hurst, COC Art Gallery director.

The exhibition “Faculty Focus” opens Tuesday, March 13, and will run through Thursday, April 12.

A special artists’ reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 13, in the Art Gallery.

The College of the Canyons Art Gallery is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Those unable to visit the gallery during normal hours are welcome to call (661) 362-3612 to schedule a viewing appointment. All gallery exhibitions and related events are free and open to the public.

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Resume Rallies Slated March 20, 21 at Both Campuses

March 6, 2012​

College of the Canyons Career Services will host a pair of Resume Rally events to help students and community members create, enhance and fine-tune their professional resumes in advance of the college’s two upcoming Job & Career Fairs.

Resume Rally attendees will be able to meet with professionals who can provide tips and pointers about how to make a resume and cover letter stand out during the job search and application process.

Resume Rallies are scheduled:

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 20

Valencia campus (staff dining room, located in the Student Center)

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 21

Canyon Country campus (Quad 1, Building B, Room 110)

Both events are free to all students and community members. However, attendees without student parking passes should be prepared to purchase a one-day pass for $2, or print out a Resume Rally flyer from the college’s Career Services website and place it on their car’s dashboard on the day of the event.

The college will also host its bi-annual Job & Career Fair on the following days:

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, at the Valencia campus

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, at the Canyon Country campus

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Students Complete First Step in Quest to ‘Rock Rhythm, Beat Odds’

March 5, 2012​

Organizers of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ project have successfully implemented the initial stage of a hybrid music education program meant to showcase the importance of arts education, while bringing together more than 10,000 local students and community members in an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest drum circle.

Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds is being produced by the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program, with generous support from Remo Inc. and several other local businesses, organizations and community members.

As part of the project, every sixth- and seventh-grader in the Santa Clarita Valley has now received music and rhythm instruction, designed to maximize each student’s creative expression, build social and emotional skills and emphasize the process of learning over performance.

On the morning of Friday, May 18, 2012, all participating students and their parents will be invited to Cougar Stadium on the College of the Canyons Valencia campus, to assemble what could become the world’s largest drum circle.

It is hoped that this incredible effort will cast a national spotlight on the Santa Clarita Valley, while showing what can happen when a community comes together to make a difference in the lives of students by imparting the importance of arts education in the development of the whole child.

“It is with a great sense of pride that we can announce the successful completion of the first phase of our ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ initiative,” said PAC managing director Adam Philipson. “What could have been a logistical nightmare was made a dream fulfilled thanks to the tremendous help of everyone involved. As a result, we’ve been able to deliver the Beat the Odds hybrid program to every sixth- and seventh-grade student in the SCV.

“But that was just the first stage,” added Philipson. “It’s now ‘all hands on drums’ as we work to take the facilitation work of stage one to the next level, by bringing together all of the classes from each school into one large group.”

Remo Inc. founder Remo Belli, Remo President Brock Kaericher and the entire Remo staff have played key roles in helping to bring the ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ initiative to life.

In addition to providing drums and other forms of logistical support, the company is now in the process of making the more than 11,000 sound shapes (percussive instruments that will be used at the stadium) required to break the current drum circle record of 10,180.

These instruments will be provided not just to the students who will be gathered at Cougar Stadium, but also to all participating attendees in the stands and around the stadium, who will be integral to the process of attempting to set a new Guinness World Record.

Once assembled inside the stadium, these students will join their fellow sixth- and seventh-graders, with instruments in hand, to form a unified team of amateur musicians.

“Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds has exposed our students to a unique musical experience,” said Michele Krantz, principal of Rancho Pico Junior High School. “There is a lot of enthusiasm about the event and we have enjoyed the progression from small group to whole school, and look forward to seeing all the schools come together to achieve the world record.”

PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program

The PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program continues to provide incredible opportunities for the youth of the Santa Clarita Valley through valuable partnerships with major arts organizations in California and across the nation. The program uses the college’s cultural and community resources to expose Santa Clarita’s student population to top-tier, visual and performing arts standard-based arts activities and integrated performing arts learning opportunities. The Outreach Program has at its core a collaborative approach, partnering with teachers and administrators in school districts, and community-based organizations throughout the area to develop an enhanced arts education curriculum and a variety of unique educational opportunities for all students.

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‘Celebrating the Humanities’ Series Returns March 22

March 5, 2012​

This semester, the College of the Canyons Humanities Division will present a series of 17 events and activitiesdemonstrating the collective power of the humanities subjects and showcasing the talents of the college’s faculty during the second annual Celebrating the Humanities program.

With events taking place on campus throughout March and April, ‘Celebrating the Humanities’ will feature presentations from college faculty members specializing in subjects including English, philosophy, cinema, modern language, music, political science and sociology.

During this year’s program, each of the presentations will be related to the overarching theme: Empathy — The World in Multiple Perspectives.

“Ultimately, it is empathy — the ability to feel and see the world as others do — that unites humanity,” said Denee Pescarmona, interim dean of humanities. “In an era of divisiveness, we want to showcase that central element that celebrates the commonality of the human spirit.”

As the program’s launch event, the college will host renowned author Susan Straight for a unique presentation about her latest novel “Take One Candle Light a Room” and its elements of authenticity, empathy and redemption, at noon on Thursday, March 22, in Aliso Hall, Room 104, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

Praised by Pulitzer Prize-nominated author Joyce Carol Oates as “a writer of exceptional gifts and grace,” Straight — herself a former National Book Award finalist — is the author of seven novels, including “Highwire Moon” and “A Million Nightingales,” and a frequent contributor to a number of national publications.

“We could not be happier to have Ms. Straight’s participation in this year’s program,” said English professor Jia-Yi Cheng-Levine, who is also one of the event organizers. “Her tireless efforts to help bring social justice issues to the forefront of the literary world connect us to our common humanity, through an ability to empathize with others.”

All of the "Celebrating the Humanities" events are free and open to the public. Other events highlighting this year’s program include:

“Il Postino” — The Composition and Legacy of Daniel Catán

Presenters: Andrea Puente and Michael McMahan

7 p.m. Tuesday, April 10

Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center

Abstract: When world-famous composer and College of the Canyons music instructor Daniel Catán died unexpectedly in April 2011, he left behind a rich catalog of music, most notably his last completed opera “Il Postino.” Based on the Academy Award-winning 1994 Italian film of the same name and the 1985 novel “Ardiente Paciencia” by Antonio Skármeta, “Il Postino” tells the story of a shy young postman in a tiny Italian fishing village who discovers the courage to pursue his dreams through his daily deliveries to his only customer, the esteemed Chilean poet Pablo Neruda played by Placido Domingo. A filmed version of “Il Postino” — produced by LA Opera and PBS — will be presented, along with opening remarks about Daniel Catán’s composition process and the legacy of his foundation by his widow Andrea Puente and Michael McMahan, COC professor emeritus and the college’s former dean of humanities.

“The Elegance of the Hedgehog” — An Exercise in Empathy

Presenters: Pierre Etienne and Jan Keller

4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 11

Hasley Hall, Room 233

Abstract: Jan Keller, COC professor emeritus and the college’s former head librarian, will lead a discussion of the best-selling French novel “The Elegance of the Hedgehog.” Containing strong themes of empathy, the novel deals with three characters of different ages, socio-economic backgrounds, and cultures, and depicts how their ability to see kindred souls in each other provides the ability to transform their lives. Attendees will also be invited to a screening of the award-winning French language film “The Hedgehog,” which was inspired by the novel, at 7 p.m. Friday, April 13, in Hasley Hall, Room 101.

American Slaves, Arab Master: Identity and Empathy in the Modern Middle East

Presenters: Jennifer Brezina, Majid Mosleh, and Brent Riffel

1 to 2 p.m. Monday, April 16

Hasley Hall, Room 230

Abstract: This panel will examine the relationship between the U.S. and the Middle East, starting with the events and literary texts of the Barbary Wars and connecting to the present day conditions. The discussion will begin with an analysis of the Barbary Wars, including how Orientalism and the philosophical concept of “Other” work to build, and deny, empathy as national identity is formed. These concepts will then be related to contemporary global politics, in particular U.S./Middle East relations post 9/11.

The Theory of Everything (Holistic Education)

Presenters: Tory Singer and members of the COC Philosophy Club

2 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 18

Hasley Hall, Room 233

Abstract: We are required as rational and educated/scholarly individuals to familiarize ourselves with a wide array of varying disciplines that are extremely applicable to everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or chosen major. The presenters of this panel will argue for and expand on this idea, as well as the idea that, individually, each academic discipline has a great, yet limited, ability to advance and benefit human culture/society, but together (when combined) the potential evolves to infinite possibilities.

Celebrating Art: Toward a Tactile Understanding of Empathy

Presenters: Pamela Williams-Paez

2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, April 19

Mentry Hall, Room 202

Abstract: Creating art has always been an important facet of society and culture, both reflecting on and shaping our understanding of the world and ourselves. To be able to connect to basic elements through the creative process at times reveals surprising insights into the human condition. Pottery is one art form that can remind us of important aspects of our existence, as well as creating space for articulating new ideas and possibilities. Through a wheel throwing demonstration, a story of our existence as creators and our reflection on our connection to the earth can be told. By participating in this presentation, attendees will learn how notions of centering, exercising patience, connecting to the Earth, and having fun are all intrinsic factors related to working with clay.

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New Chancellor’s Cabaret Series to Debut on March 14

March 2, 2012​

Beginning this month, the College of the Canyons jazz choirs will host a series of intimate, cabaret style performances at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center intended to showcase the groups’ collective singing talents, while providing community members with a new venue to experience vocal jazz and a cappella music.

The music department’s Chancellor’s Cabaret Series will debut 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, in the main lobby of the University Center, located on the Valencia campus.

“I am delighted that our devoted music faculty have created this unique opportunity that will enhance our students’ performance skills, and give the community a chance to experience music in a new way,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook said.

In the first installment of the series, the college’s two vocal jazz choirs — Just Jazz and House Blend — will be joined in concert by touring vocal jazz ensemble Audio Radiance.

Hailing from Southwestern Community College in Creston, Iowa, Audio Radiance is enjoying its 20th year as one of the cutting-edge vocal jazz ensembles in the United States.

Under the guidance of musical director Jason Smith, who earned a Grammy nomination for his work on the album “Night in the City” by Phil Mattson and the P.M. Singers, the group headlined at several national jazz festivals and maintains an active touring scheduling with recent visits to Chicago, Denver, New York and Winnipeg.

This year, tours by Audio Radiance will include performances throughout the San Francisco Bay and greater Los Angeles areas.

“We have long been searching for an intimate performance setting with good acoustics — and the University Center provides that,” said Julie Lawson, artistic director of the COC choral department. “It’s an exquisite venue, which lends itself beautifully to our style of vocal jazz and a cappella singing.

“Inviting other visiting artists to perform will also provide excellent opportunities for our students to work with fellow musicians,” Lawson said, “and allows us to share our love of vocal jazz with the community.”

General admission to the Chancellor’s Cabaret Series is $12, or $10 for students and senior citizens. Tickets will be available at the door beginning at 6:15 p.m. the evening of the performance or in advance by contacting choir director Julie Lawson. All ticket proceeds will benefit the COC jazz choirs.

Subsequent performances in the Chancellor’s Cabaret Series have tentatively been scheduled for late spring, early fall and the holiday season.

As an added treat, those performances will also incorporate the presence of COC culinary arts students, who will be on hand to serve food and wine to attendees, as part of the college’s ongoing culinary arts capital campaign. However, those dates and times have yet to be finalized.

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Second Installment of Chancellor’s Cabaret Slated May 5 and 6

April 27, 2012​

As the second installment of the Chancellor’s Cabaret Series, the College of the Canyons music department will host a quartet of concert events May 5 and 6 in the main lobby of the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

The Chancellor’s Cabaret Series debuted to a packed house on the evening of March 14, 2012, and featured performances by the college’s two vocaljazz choirs — Just Jazz and House Blend — along with touring vocal jazz ensemble Audio Radiance.

“The debut of the Chancellor’s Cabaret Series has allowed us the ability to share our love of choral music with the entire community,” said Julie Lawson, co-director of the COC choral department. “The University Center is an exquisite venue, with the type of acoustics necessary to properly showcase the amazing talents of our students.

“I invite anyone with a fondness for vocal jazz, chamber choir and a cappella singing to join us at one of these upcoming concerts,” added Lawson. “You won’t be disappointed!”

The second installment of the Chancellor’s Cabaret Series will take place May 5 and 6, with both an afternoon and evening concert being held each day.

On Saturday, May 5, the college’s choirs Voices of the Canyons, Les Chanteuses (women’s choir) and the COC Chamber Singers will present the concert “Broadway Bound: A Musical Theatre Review,” featuring an assortment of famous Broadway musical show tunes. Performances will take place at 2 and 5 p.m.

The following afternoon, on Sunday, May 6, the award-winning choirs Just Jazz and House Blend will present the concert “Rhythm and Blues: An Afternoon of Vocal Jazz,” featuring a versatile set of musical arrangements that incorporate elements of swing, shuffle, jazz waltz and samba music. Performances will take place at 2 and 5 p.m.

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Student Named to All-USA Community College Academic Team

April 25, 2012​

College of the Canyons student Maral Sakayan is one of just 20 community college students from across the nation honored as one of USA Today’s 2012 All-USA Community College Academic Team.

Presented by USA Today and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and sponsored by Follett Higher Education Group, the All-USA Community College Academic Team recognizes the academic achievements of the nation’s top community college students.

Members of the 2012 All-USA Community College Academic Team were featured in the April 23 edition of USA Today, and presented to the public during the Phi Theta Kappa Presidents Breakfast held during the Annual Convention of the American Association of Community Colleges Convention (AACC) April 23, in Orlando, Fla.

Of the team’s 20 members, Sakayan — she boasts a 3.77 GPA and hopes to one day be a physician — was one of three California community college students to be honored.

At just 18 years of age, Sakayan also holds the distinction of being the team’s youngest member.

“All of us at College of the Canyons join in celebrating Maral’s well-deserved recognition,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook. “She is a role model for us all. With her focus and tenacity, she is an example of what can be accomplished when you are willing to dream big and put the energy and effort into achieving those dreams.”

To be eligible for inclusion on the All-USA Community College Academic Team students must be a current community college student, post a minimum 3.5 GPA and have accrued at least 36 units before Dec. 31, 2011 and be on track to complete at least 48 units by Aug. 31, 2012.

This year, more than 1,700 students from 800 community colleges were nominated for inclusion. From that group, 20 honorees were named to the national team, with each receiving an initial $2,500 scholarship award and commemorative medallion.

Upon completion of their baccalaureate studies, honorees are also eligible for an additional $5,000 scholarship award.

About Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is the largest honor society in American higher education with more than 1,280 chapters on two-year and community college campuses in all 50 of the United States, Canada, Germany, Peru, the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the British Virgin Islands, the United Arab Emirates and the U.S. territorial possessions. More than 2.5 million students have been inducted since its founding in 1918, with approximately 135,000 students inducted annually.

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College to Host Fifth Annual Discovering Careers Expo April 28

April 23, 2012​

Sure, you may have your own ideas on the matter, but have you ever wondered what your children might want to be when they grow up? What kind of a career do they desire? What kind of training will they need? Where can they go to get started down that specific career path?

If they’re like most kids, there really is no simple answer.

With so many potential choices out there, knowing how to identify which industries and career fields your child should explore can seem overwhelming. Thankfully, College of the Canyons is here to help.

From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 28, the college will host the fifth annual Discovering Careers Expo, providing community members with a free career exploration event aimed at students of all ages.

Being held inside the COC cafeteria and parking lot 3, located adjacent to Pico Canyon Hall, the Discovering Careers Expo will feature a variety of interactive presentations and demonstrations by local industry professionals, along with a number of hands-on opportunities designed to let students explore different career fields by interacting with the men and women who perform these jobs every day.

Included among the list of scheduled presenters at this year’s Discovering Careers Expo are representatives from the following industries and career sectors:

• Arts, Media and Entertainment

• Building and Construction

• Education, Child Development and Family Services

• Engineering and Design

• Fashion

• Interior Design

• Business and Finance

• Health Sciences

• Medicine

• Information Technology

• Manufacturing and Product Development

• Marketing and Sales

• Public Services

• Transportation

“This event will provide students with a priceless opportunity to begin exploring, at a young age, what people really do after they’re finished with school,” said Adriana Estrada, COC Summer Institute coordinator. “All the tools and info they need to begin thinking about a future career will be provided, you just have to get here.”

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Music Department to Host Annual Pops! Jazz Concert May 11

April 20, 2012​

The music department will present its annual POPS! Concert in May, providing local jazz fans an opportunity to hear a new take on some musical classics.

The 2012 Jazz Band POPS! Concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 11, on the main stage of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons.

General admission tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for COC students and senior citizens.

The event will feature a selection of popular music presented by local guest artists and backed up by the award-winning College of the Canyons Studio Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo bands, which will perform under the direction of COC music director KC Manji.

In all, 35 student musicians will take part in the concert by performing musical arrangements by legendary COC music instructor and jazz musician Dirk Fischer, who began his teaching career at COC in 1977 as the college’s first instructor of jazz studies and director of the college’s jazz band.

Accompanying the Studio Jazz Ensemble’s session will be a guest performance by current COC music instructor Dr. Lydia Lee, who will perform George Gershwin’s famed composition “Rhapsody in Blue.”

“Gershwin’s composition of ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ was first premiered by the Paul Whiteman Jazz Orchestra, with Gershwin at the piano, in 1924. At the time the piece was considered a very modern combination of classical and jazz music for a solo piano and jazz band,” said Manji.

“Dirk Fischer’s arrangement of the song is an outstanding compliment to the original, and Dr. Lydia Lee's technique and performance is virtuosic,” added Manji. “She has a unique ability to draw out the nuances of the music in one of America's most beloved pieces of American musical literature.”

Other guest artists will include the college’s award-winning vocal jazz choir ‘Just Jazz’ performing under the direction of Julie Lawson, artistic director of the COC choral department.

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College of the Canyons Honored for Commitment to Community Service

April 20, 2012​

For a sixth consecutive year, College of the Canyons has been honored for its dedication to providing access to service-learning educational opportunities with inclusion on the 2012 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.

Administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, inclusion on the annual Honor Roll is the highest federal recognition a college or university can receive for its commitment to volunteering, service learning and civic engagement.

Originally inspired by the thousands of college students who traveled across the country to support relief efforts along the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina, the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll initiative is meant to celebrate the transformative power and volunteer spirit that exists within the higher education community.

This year, College of the Canyons is one of only 29 higher education institutions in the state — and the only California community college — to appear on the Honor Roll. In addition, the college has been included on the honor roll every year since its inception in 2006.

“We are extremely honored to have received this designation for the sixth year in a row,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook. “But what really inspires us is the passion and commitment on the part of our students to serve the community. Their commitment to learning and serving is infectious, and we take great pride in all that they accomplish to the benefit of others.”

Service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to teach civic responsibility, strengthen communities and enrich the learning experience.

With the belief that students can make valuable contributions to the world while gaining educational experience, College of the Canyons strives to increase community involvement, strengthen student leadership skills and build meaningful community relationships by carrying out various service-learning projects.

“The recognition received for this award speaks loudly to the commitment of how important it is to our students, faculty and community-based agencies who work together for the common goal of creating new relationships, providing hands-on learning and strengthening community ties,” said Kim Arredondo, COC service-learning program technician.

In the academic year for which the college was recognized and awarded, service-learning projects at COC included the participation of roughly 64 faculty members from the college’s various departments, 80 non-profit community-based organizations and 894 students.

Recent College of the Canyons service-learning projects have included placements with The Wildlife Learning Center, Penny Lane Centers, Heads Up Therapy with Horses, Placerita Canyon Nature Center, Help the Children, Habitat for Humanity, Single Mothers Outreach, and the Boys & Girls Club.

Another successful service-learning collaboration is the annual flu clinic — jointly sponsored by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the City of Santa Clarita, College of the Canyons and the L.A. County Sheriff’s and Fire Departments — in which COC nursing and EMT students gained valuable experience working with patients and dispensing flu vaccinations.

The Corporation for National and Community Service oversees the Honor Roll in collaboration with the Department of Education, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Campus Compact and the American Council on Education.

Honorees are chosen based on a series of selection factors, including the scope and innovation of service projects, percentage of student participation in service activities, incentives for service and the extent to which the school offers academic service-learning courses.

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Wells Fargo Contributes $15,000 to Culinary Arts Capital Campaign

April 18, 2012​

Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook (center right) is presented a $15,000 check by Janice Dollar, Wells Fargo Bank regional service manager for the Los Angeles region, and a contingent of Wells Fargo employees, during the college’s recent Silver Spur Celebration at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Air Force One Pavilion.

The donation will be dedicated to the COC Foundation’s ongoing Culinary Arts Capital Campaign to raise funds for the construction of a permanent facility on the Valencia campus to house the college’s Institute for Culinary Arts Education (iCuE).

At the request of Wells Fargo Bank, this contribution has been designated for use in the design and construction of the facility’s main faculty office suite.

Culinary Arts Capital Campaign committee co-chair, Diana Cusumano, thanked Wells Fargo Bank for their continuing support of the culinary campaign and College of the Canyons, commenting “this level of commitment shows that Wells Fargo Bank is an outstanding corporate partner.”

About the Culinary Arts Capital Campaign

Having long sought a way to expand the depth and breadth of its culinary arts department, in 2011 the COC Foundation embarked on a capital campaign designed to raise funds for the construction of a state-of-the-art, on-campus culinary facility which would provide a permanent home for the college’s culinary arts department and greatly expand the number of locally available training opportunities in that field.

The end result is envisioned as a 5,600-square-foot building, designed in an architectural style that underlines the simplicity of the reflective glass surfaces found on nearby structures, and provides an elegant sophistication appropriate for a building that will serve educational as well as social functions.

Individual elements of the building’s design include: a demonstration kitchen, a savory kitchen, a sweets kitchen, an area for wine studies, a culinary lab space, herb garden, large dining area and instructor office spaces.

The current estimate for the cost of the new COC Culinary Arts facility is roughly $4.7 million. However, in late 2010 college officials learned that the current Library expansion project was expected to come in nearly $3 million under budget.

That savings has since been applied to the Culinary Arts project — leaving a balance of roughly $1.7 million to be raised.

Community members interested in getting involved with the capital campaign will have the chance to do so through a variety of culinary themed events and activities taking place in the coming months, as well other gift giving and naming opportunities associated with the new facility.

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Theatre Department to Stage Tony Award-Winning ‘Equus’ May 17 to 20

April 18, 2012​

Starring a cast of students, community members and professional actors, the College of the Canyons theatre department will present Peter Schaffer’s Tony Award-winning adult drama ‘Equus’ as the final production of the spring semester.

Chronicling the disturbing journey of Alan Strang, a young man who seems to have a passion for horses, but whom is harboring darker desires, ‘Equus’ has been hailed for raising a number of thought-provoking issues which often leave audiences deep in thought, long after the production has ended.

The story unfolds as psychiatrist Dr. Martin Dysart is confronted with Strang, after the boy has recently blinded six horses in a violent fit of passion. While this sense of passion is as foreign to Dysart as the act itself, to the boy’s parents this transgression is a hideous mystery. Because Strang has always adored horses, the case presents a psychological puzzle that is eventually solved, live on stage.

“The play’s power, I believe, is found not so much in its plot-driven mystery, but more in the way it reminds us of the need to create meaning in our lives through a real connection with our passions,” said John DeMita, COC theatre instructor and director of the production.

‘Equus’ originally opened at the National Theatre in 1973 to worldwide acclaim. During the 2008-09 Broadway season the production enjoyed a successful revival starring ‘Harry Potter’ stars Daniel Radcliffe and Richard Griffiths in the lead roles of Alan Strang and Dr. Martin Dysart, and ‘True Blood’ actress Anna Camp as female lead Jill Mason.

“ ‘Equus’ hasn’t lost any of its impact in the nearly 40 years since it was written,” added DeMita. “I myself first saw it on Broadway in 1975, at the age of 16, and can remember being immensely impressed by the show’s theatrical spectacle.

“Today I find myself even more deeply moved by this intimate, human story about the vital relationship between a troubled child, the adults in his life and the courage necessary for true self examination from all those involved in this dynamic.”

The cast of ‘Equus’ includes a mix of COC theatre department regulars and other well-known members of the Santa Clarita Valley theatre community.

Current Valencia High School theatre arts director Stephen Whelan, whose experience includes starring roles and directing credits in several COC theatre productions, has been cast as Dr. Martin Dysart, in a role the veteran actor calls a “once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Meanwhile, longtime COC stage actor Timmy Jasperson, who previously starred in the COC productions of ‘Death of a Salesman’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ returns to play the starring role of Alan Strang.

Also featured in the cast will be: stage, screen and voice actress Peggy Flood as Hester Salomon; COC theatre instructor and professional actor/director and puppeteer Allan Trautman as Frank Strang; longtime performer Heather Frame, making her third appearance in a COC production, in the role of Dora Strang; and COC trained actor Rachel Andrea Cox, who will be transferring to CalArts in the fall, in the role of Jill Mason.

‘Equus’ will open Thursday, May 17, and run for one weekend only on the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center main stage. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. May 17 to 19, and 2 p.m. May 20.

This production contains nudity and mature content. Parental discretion is advised for minors. Children under the age of 5 will not be allowed in the theater.

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SBDC Invites Business Community to ‘Dream and Discover’ May 3

April 17, 2012​

Current and future small business owners, students and community members are all encouraged to think entrepreneurially and embrace their dreams at the 2012 Dream and Discover Entrepreneurs Conference, being presented by the Small Business Development Center at College of the Canyons (SBDC).

Featuring a lineup of inspiring keynote speakers and interactive workshops, the Dream and Discover conference will provide tips for business owners and entrepreneurs alike, while informing attendees about the wide range of available SBDC services and programs, highlighted by the Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP).

“This year’s Dream and Discover conference will again provide attendees with access to the critical resources that aspiring and successful local business owners need to thrive in today’s economic climate, along with the chance to meet with other successful entrepreneurs and listen to a panel of outstanding speakers who will inspire them to reach new heights,” said Steve Tannehill, SBDC Director.

The 2012 Dream and Discover conference will take place from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 3, in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located on the College of the Canyons Valencia campus.

To begin the afternoon, Pete Bellas, dean of economic development, will open the conference with a welcoming address.

Highlighting the day will be a keynote presentation by local entrepreneur and president of J & M Entertainment Event Production, Jorge Lopez, who will discuss with attendees what entrepreneurship has meant for him and how it can be a viable opportunity for anyone.

Also scheduled to speak is Jason Price, training specialist with Yahoo!/Microsoft Search Alliance and founder of the Brenda Mehling Cancer Fund and the Repertory East Playhouse, who will address how entrepreneurs can maximize their advertising efforts through various forms of online marketing.

SBDC business advisors will lead a series of interactive workshops providing tips for business owners and current/future entrepreneurs alike.

Topics of discussion will include branding your business, pitching your business for investors, writing a business plan, operating a business in entertainment & arts, and operating a restaurant/food industry business. All topics will also include information about how the SBDC can help an entrepreneur achieve their specific business goals.

“It’s our hope that every conference attendee leaves at the end of the day with at least one or two actionable tips they can put into practice at their own business, or utilize as they work towards becoming entrepreneurs,” said Diana Meyer, SBDC business advisor and YEP program manager, who is organizing the conference.

Time will also be dedicated to sharing success strategies and other marketing techniques with attendees involved in the SBDC’s Young Entrepreneur Program (YEP).

Targeting young people ages 14 to 27, YEP offers free business counseling and business training programs delivered through a variety of outreach and delivery methods, including websites, blogs, social networking sites, virtual reality games, youth-oriented trainers and business simulation products.

The goal of the program is to guide and encourage young people to consider careers in self-employment and small business ownership.

"We’ll also showcase the impressive accomplishments of our young entrepreneurs via our annual Business Plan and Marketing Competitions awards,” said Meyer. “The awards ceremony coupled with the networking opportunities presented throughout the event will help connect all attendees with others for potential future collaborations.”

To conclude the conference, the SBDC will present a networking reception designed to allow aspiring and successful entrepreneurs meet, mingle, trade business tips and promote their companies or business ventures.

Key sponsors of the 2012 Young Entrepreneurs Program and the Dream and Discover Entrepreneurs Conference include College of the Canyons, the California Community College’s Economic and Workforce Development program (EWD) and the Business & Entrepreneurship Center at Cuesta College.

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17th Annual Student Art Exhibit Scheduled April 26 to May 17

April 16, 2012​

This month, the College of the Canyons Art Gallery will present the “17th Annual COC Student Exhibition,” offering community members a chance to view an eclectic collection of work produced by the college’s talented student artists.

Serving as the semester’s culminating event for many COC art students, the annual exhibition also plays an important role in gallery director Larry Hurst’s ongoing initiative to expand the College of the Canyons Student Art Collection.

First organized in 2011, the COC Student Art Collection project allows students to submit their artworks for competition in the annual “Student Exhibition” held each spring semester. From those submissions, four winners are eventually selected and awarded cash prizes.

The chosen works then become part of a permanent visual art collection, spanning all disciplines, which is displayed at the college’s Valencia and Canyon Country campuses.

“Student exhibitions are always a highlight for me,” said Larry Hurst, COC Art Gallery director. “It’s very rewarding to see the wealth of creative talent expressed by our students.

“This is the type of exhibition that has something for everyone with drawings, paintings, 3-D work, photography, graphics and mixed media artworks all being exhibited,” added Hurst. “I think that everyone will agree that our students represent the college very well indeed!”

The “17th Annual COC Student Exhibition” will run from Thursday, April 26, through Thursday, May 17. An artist’s reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. the evening of April 26, in the college’s Art Gallery, located on the Valencia campus.

In addition, the college will host the second annual Student Art Collection Awards, from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 8, in the Art Gallery.

The College of the Canyons Art Gallery is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Those unable to visit the gallery during normal hours are welcome to call (661) 362-3612 to schedule a viewing appointment. All gallery exhibitions and related events are free and open to the public.

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All Systems Go for Summer Institute’s Launch of NASA-inspired Camps

April 12, 2012​

Local high school and junior high students will have the opportunity to send their interest for aeronautics and rocketry into flight, with the recent addition of two NASA inspired career exploration tracks set to launch during this summer’s all-new College of the Canyons Summer Institute.

The College of the Canyons Summer Institute is now open to students entering the seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth grades. The goal of the Summer Institute is to provide hands-on career exploration and learning opportunities to students in a variety of areas and subjects including: aeronautics and rocketry, robotics, motion picture special effects, video game design, culinary arts, sports medicine, welding and alternative energy fabrication.

“Due to the overwhelming popularity and success of the COC Junior High Summer Institute, this summer we have decided to offer this unique career exploration themed summer camp to high school students as well,” said Adriana Estrada, COC Summer Institute coordinator.

All Summer Institute instructors are COC professors, student teachers or industry professionals that have tailored their curriculum with junior high and high school students in mind. Each track allows participating students to discover a multitude of career possibilities through a unique blend of innovative lesson plans and fun hands-on activities that are scheduled each week.

Students enrolled in the NASA aeronautics track will begin by exploring the history and fundamentals of flight, while learning about the science behind air travel with gliders, wind tunnels, gravity and colliding marbles. Instructors will also cover the topics of lift, gravity, thrust and drag, as students build models and conduct experiments related to the principles of flight.

Taking things just a step further will be the NASA rocketry track, which has been dedicated to teaching students about rocket construction, propulsion and fuel sources through various hands-on construction activities. Students will learn the science behind rocketry as they design and build their own rockets.

The 2012 COC Summer Institute will run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from July 16 through Aug. 3, and will consist of the following three one-week sessions:

• Monday, July 16 through Friday, July 20 - Junior High

• Monday, July 23 through Friday, July 27 - Junior High

• Monday, July 30 through Friday, Aug. 3 - High School

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‘Tis the Season for Interior Decorating at College of the Canyons

April 12, 2012​

Subject: A collection of students from the College of the Canyons Interior Design and Architecture departments will participate in a unique, holiday-themed design project as they compete for an opportunity to take part in the 32nd annual Holiday Home Tour in December.

Event: This Saturday, a group of interior design and architecture students will spend up to six hours working on a project in which they will be asked to design a specific holiday display.

At the conclusion of the day, Jo Ann Vindigni, president of the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Health Foundation Holiday Home Tour League, and Barbara Sanguinetti, the organization’s outgoing president, will be on hand to judge the designs and select a winner.

The winning design team will be invited to decorate one of the homes scheduled to take part in the 32nd annual Holiday Home Tour in December.

Providing local job seekers with employment opportunities in an array of industries and career fields, this spring College of the Canyons and The Signal newspaper will present their bi-annual Job, Career and Intern Fair, with dates scheduled on both of the college’s campuses.

The spring 2012 Job, Career & Intern Fairs are scheduled:

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, at the Valencia campus

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 1, at the Canyon Country campus

Both events are free and open to the public, and will feature a variety of employers. In addition to entry, middle and upper level employment opportunities, job fair organizers will also have information about paid internship opportunities.

As always, Job Fair attendees are encouraged to: research the companies that will be in attendance (list available at COC Career Services website); “dress for success” in order to make a good first impression with potential employers; and bring plenty of resumes to leave with job recruiters.

“Our goal for this job fair is to bring employers and job seekers together, to exchange information regarding what opportunities are available, and how to best apply for them,” said Anthony Michaelides, director of career services at the college. “It is the job seeker’s responsibility to be prepared with questions and to have done their research on the companies in attendance. It’s also a good idea for attendees to apply online to companies of interest before attending the fair.

“However, attendees will only have one chance to make a good first impression in person,” Michaelides said. “Something that cannot be done online.”

As an additional service offered to all attendees, event organizers have scheduled a series of 50-minute workshops containing tips, techniques and information for job seekers to utilize on their path to employment. Scheduled workshops at the two events will include:

• “Get Connected through LinkedIn for Networking and Job Search”

• “Paint Your Career Green: Find a Green Job Without Starting Over”

• “Resumes and the Job Search”

The COC Career Center will also be hosting a workshop on “How to Prepare for the Job Fair” from noon to 1 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, in the college’s Student Center, Room PDR-3, located on the Valencia campus.

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Canyon Country Campus to Host Star Party on May 4

April 9, 2012​

The College of the Canyons Canyon Country campus will host its bi-annual Star Party on May 4, with all community members invited to visit the campus and view the stars — along with Saturn, the moon and Mars.

The spring semester Star Party is scheduled 7:30 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 4, in the Canyon Country campus’ Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater. Admission is free of charge and open to the public.

Attendees will have the opportunity to view the night sky — with particular emphasis on Saturn, Mars and the Earth’s moon — through one of several high-powered telescopes.

“The elevated nature of our location, combined with the clear views we experience on a nightly basis, makes the Canyon Country campus a perfect venue for gazing at the moon, stars and planets,” said Dr. Dena Maloney, vicepresident of the Canyon Country campus and Economic Development.

College faculty members will be joined by students from the Astronomy & Physics Club and other local astronomers to answer questions and provide audiences with additional background and interesting insights about our moon and the many awe-inspiring aspects and unique planetary makeup of Saturn and Mars.

To begin the evening, guest speaker Matt Wallace, flight systems manager at Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), will deliver a brief orientation lecture based on his experiences working with NASA’s Mars Exploration Program on the famed Mars rover project.

As flight system manager for the Mars Science Laboratory project, Wallace and his team are responsible for overseeing the development of spacecraft systems for the next Mars rover, code named Curiosity, which launched from Kennedy Space Center in November 2011 and is expected to reach Mars on Aug. 5, 2012.

Wallace has made significant contributions to other robotic planetary missions and three Mars rover missions, including management of the assembly, test and launch operations team for both the Spirit and Opportunity rovers. He also handled surface mission operations for the Opportunity rover after it landed on Mars in 2004.

“We’re very excited to have someone with Mr. Wallace’s level of knowledge and in depth experience join us for what is sure to be a fascinating evening under the stars,” Maloney said.

Though some seating will be provided, attendees are encouraged to get to campus early with blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets to enjoy a festive outdoor atmosphere as the sun begins to set and the night sky emerges.

Coffee, hot chocolate, pizza and other food items will be available for purchase at the event from Lamppost Pizza, operator of the Canyons Café on the Canyon Country campus. A portion of concession sales will be donated to the Dr. Ram Manvi Memorial Scholarship to benefit students majoring in mathematics, science or engineering technology.

Dr. Manvi, the former dean of math, science and engineering at College of the Canyons, was instrumental in launching the first Star Party in 2009.

Want to learn more about Saturn, the moon and Mars? Then bring your friends and family to this unique, educational and fun-filled event!

For more information, call the Canyon Country campus at (661) 362-3801.

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College Hosts Ninth Annual Children’s Play Day April 28

April 3, 2012​

College of the Canyons and the Southern California Valley Association for the Education of Young Children (SCVAEYC) will cap off the nationally celebrated Week of the Young Child by hosting a free “Play Day” of fun and developmentally appropriate activities for all children to enjoy.

The goal of the College of the Canyons Children’s Play Day is to bring the community together for a day of high quality, developmentally stimulating play experiences, while providing families with young children an opportunity to explore the many valuable resources that are available to them both at the college and in the community.

“I look forward to seeing the smiling faces of parents and children at this event each year,” said Wendy Ruiz, director of Infant/Toddler programs at the college’s Center for Early Childhood Education and co-chair of Week of the Young Child SCVAEYC. “Our hope is to provide local families with a day of free fun, in a safe and nurturing environment that infants, toddlers and school-age children will all enjoy.”

In all, nearly 50 local non-profit groups and organizations dedicated to child and family services are expected to participate in this year’s Play Day. Food vendors will also be available at the event.

Attendees are also welcome to bring a picnic lunch and blanket and settle in under the shade for the day’s lineup of activities including: arts and crafts, live music, storytelling, obstacle courses, karate and soccer demos, gymnastics, math and science activities and more.

The ninth annual College of the Canyons Children’s Play Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 28, in the COC Honor Grove, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

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​​MAY

Class of 2012 to be Honored During 43rd Commencement

May 30, 2012​

College of the Canyons will honor the graduating class of 2012 by hosting its 43rd annual commencement ceremony, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Friday, June 1, in the Honor Grove, located on the Valencia campus.

The centrally located Honor Grove has been the scene of a variety of public ceremonies and communitywide events, and is an ideal venue to host the many proud families and friends who attend the commencement ceremony.

Seating for the event is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, with each graduate asked to invite no more than eight guests. Community members planning to attend the ceremony are encouraged to arrive to campus early, as the college’s parking lots will be congested.

Guests should arrive no later than 8:15 a.m. to ensure they do not miss any portions of the ceremony.

The morning will begin with a traditional graduation processional through the Honor Grove, followed by a welcome address from Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook.

Included among the college’s graduating class of 1,198 students are 700 female and 498 male graduates, and a combined 554 ethnic minorities, which represents a six percent increase from the 2011 graduating class. Seventeen international students will also be receiving degrees in 2012.

The average age of this year’s graduate is 26, up slightly from both 2010 and 2011 when the average age hovered at 25.5. Meanwhile the youngest member of this year’s class checks in at just 16, while the oldest is 64. In fact, five of this year’s graduates are in their 60s. Three students will celebrate birthdays on graduation day.

The class of 2012 also includes 46 veteran graduates, nearly doubling the amount of veterans that received degrees from COC in 2011 (24) and more than tripling the mark set in 2010 (14).

Academically, there are 251 students graduating with honors — which requires a 3.5 GPA or higher — and 12 students with perfect 4.0 GPAs, which grants them the status of valedictorians. The average GPA of the class of 2012 is 3.07, down slightly from last year’s mark of 3.08.

Of the 57 different majors being represented at the ceremony, Biological and Physical Science boasts the most graduates (146), with Liberal Arts & Science (137) and Accounting (133) ranking second and third, respectively.

In addition, a record high 76.5 percent of the 2012 graduating class have taken one or more courses at the college’s Canyon Country campus, up from roughly 68.5 percent in 2011.

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Summer Session Classes Still Available at College of the Canyons

May 30, 2012​

With the official start of the 2012 summer session less than a week away, a number of class sections remain open at College of the Canyons as college officials continue to add more high-demand classes to an already augmented summer schedule.

The 2012 summer schedule marks a roughly 60 percent increase from last summer’s class schedule, and is the largest summer session to be offered at the college since 2008.

When open registration began Monday, May 14, students had approximately 480 high-demand “core” class sections to choose from, representing a wide range of courses that students need to either graduate, transfer to a four-year school and/or meet prerequisites.

Since then, more than 34 new class sections have been added to the schedule, providing approximately 1,200 additional classroom seats.

“By making the decision to increase our summer schedule the college will be able to provide classroom seats for about 16,000 students,” said Joseph Gerda, assistant superintendent/vice president of instruction at College of the Canyons. “All summer courses have also been selected based on their high demand, which allows students to register for the classes they need to achieve their educational goals.”

The college’s first five-week summer session runs June 4 to July 6. A second eight-week session will run June 11 to Aug. 3, and the final five-week session will run June 18 to July 27.

The majority of the recently added class sections being offered will begin on either the June 11 or June 18 start dates. A number of online class sections have also been included.

The 2012 summer session marks an important term for students at College of the Canyons, as the ongoing statewide budget crisis is expected to impact future course offerings at all 112 California community colleges.

Students should also be reminded that beginning in summer 2012 enrollment fees at all California community colleges have been raised to $46 per unit, as mandated by the state. Enrollment fees are also expected to continue to rise in subsequent semesters.

In addition, there is a strong likelihood that College of the Canyons will not offer a winter intersession in 2013.

“With the level of uncertainty surrounding California’s state budget, and the potential for state mandated budget cuts to impact the college’s future course offerings, students are encouraged to take advantage of this summer session to complete additional course units and get a jump start on their academic and career goals,” said Audrey Green, associate vice president of academic affairs.

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Invitation to Cover Nurse Pinning Ceremony on May 30

May 29, 2012​

Subject: College of the Canyons registered nursing program graduation and pinning ceremony.

Time: 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Place: Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons

Event: Sixty-two students from the College of the Canyons nursing program will take part in a traditional pinning ceremony marking the completion of each nurse’s training.

Celebrating the accomplishments of newly graduated registered nurses, the pinning ceremony serves as a symbolic welcoming for all those entering the nursing profession.

As part of the ceremony, nursing department faculty members will present each graduate with a nursing pin before the group collectively recites the Nightingale Pledge traditionally taken by new nurses.

“This event represents the culmination of a nursing student’s hard work and dedication, as well as the beginning of a new career in this caring profession,” said Diane Morey, director of the nursing program. “We are proud to have the opportunity to honor our graduating RNs in the presence of their family, friends and peers.”

Since 2000 the College of the Canyons nursing program has worked diligently to address the statewide nursing shortage — experiencing significant growth in the process.

Each year a minimum of 100 new students are admitted to the program. Currently there are 257 nursing students enrolled at College of the Canyons, with an additional 28 students expected to enter the program this fall.

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Architecture Students to Present Design Projects at Habitat Lounge

May 24, 2012​

Subject: Students enrolled in the College of the Canyons architecture department course ARCH 280: Advanced Design Studio, will present their end-of-semester design projects during a special student exhibition and jury presentation at the college’s new Habitat Lounge, located at the Westfield Valencia Town Center.

Event: As the culmination to a semester-long assignment, a group of second-year COC architecture students will present design projects based on the hypothetical construction of a new children's museum located in Old Town Newhall, being called The Discovery Center of the American West.

The basis for the project stems from the proposed museum facility identified in the City of Santa Clarita’s recently adopted Downtown Newhall Specific Plan. As part of the project, students were asked to generate design concepts that addressed a variety of programmatic and environmental considerations at the museum’s proposed 1.7-acre location in the Heritage Junction section of Old Town Newhall.

Exhibits on display will include several physical 3-D models and 2-D architectural drawings, as well as a variety of hand drawn and computer generated conceptual sketches.

A jury composed of representatives from the City of Santa Clarita’s Public Works Department, COC faculty members, former COC architecture students and community members will judge projects based on both their clarity and strength of design concepts.

The most impressive project presentations will then remain on display for public viewing at the COC Habitat Lounge.

Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 26, 2012

Location: COC Habitat Lounge, Town Center Drive, Suite 130

Welding Technology to Host Interactive Open House May 23

May 22, 2012​

Subject: The College of the Canyons Welding Technology department will host an interactive Open House event at COC’s state-of-the-art welding lab, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

Event: College of the Canyons students, faculty and staff and community members are invited to visit the college’s welding technology lab for an interactive evening of fun, designed to showcase the many new exciting opportunities available to students interested in pursuing a career in welding.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Take a hands-on welding ‘test drive’ using one of the college’s virtual reality welding machines.

• View the college’s robotic automation equipment, and witness it moving to the sound of music.

• Learn how laser welding is fast becoming the industry’s top technology of choice.

The theatre department will host an evening of unscripted laughter and excitement as the college’s student improv troupe, Comedians of the Canyons, presents its final show of the spring semester.

Composed entirely of student performers enrolled in the college’s advanced improvisational performance theatre class, Comedians of the Canyons will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 26, in Pico Canyon Hall, Room 202, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

“Every show is completely different and unpredictable,” said Allan Trautman, COC instructor and host of the show. “These performances tend to be packed with a very enthusiastic crowd, and we expect the first show of the semester to be a unique treat.”

The Comedians of the Canyons series has grown in popularity and enjoyed tremendous success in recent years, with students routinely performing to a packed house of comedy and improv enthusiasts.

“These are students who have gone beyond the basics of improv and are now ready for their hour in front of an audience,” said Trautman.

During each performance, scenes are made up on the spot using audience suggestions. There is no script and no safety net, which makes each performance both exhilarating and hilarious to watch.

“These improvisational performances are terrific opportunities for our students to test the performance skills they’ve learned in the classroom,” said Paul Wickline, chair of the COC theatre department.

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News Media Invited to ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ May 18

May 17, 2012​

Subject: On Friday, May 18, Cougar Stadium and the College of the Canyons Valencia campus will be the site of a world record-breaking drum circle attempt, the likes of which the Santa Clarita Valley has never seen, as the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program hosts the culminating event of its year-long hybrid music education program — Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds.

Event: With the participation of legendary musicians Mickey Hart (Grateful Dead), John Densmore (The Doors) and Remo Belli, founder of REMO Inc., Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds has been designed to both entertain and raise awareness of the value of arts education as a vital component in the development of ‘The Whole Child.’ Joining Hart and Densmore live on stage May 18, will be:

News media are invited to be a part of history, as approximately 7,600 sixth- and seventh-graders from all five of the Santa Clarita Valley’s school districts and nearly 4,000 local residents descend on Cougar Stadium in one historic effort to break the current drum circle world record of more than 10,000 participants.

It’s hoped that Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds will cast a national spotlight on the Santa Clarita Valley, while showing what can happen when a community comes together to make a difference in the lives of students.

Time: 10 a.m. to noon Friday, May 18, 2012

Beginning at 9:30 a.m. news media members attending this event are asked to check in at the main press/VIP reception area, located inside the Cougar Den at the stadium’s south entrance.

All credentialed news media will then be invited to a media Meet & Greet event in the Cougar Den from 10 to 11 a.m., where they will be granted photo/interview access to participating celebrity drummers, event organizers, College of the Canyons administrators, and City of Santa Clarita and local school district officials.

Gates to Cougar Stadium will open to the general public at 10 a.m., with a variety of live entertainment and on-field activities scheduled to begin at approximately 11 a.m.

The drum circle record-breaking attempt will officially begin at 11:30 a.m., with the event expected to conclude at approximately noon.

Note: Credentialed news media members (including photographers and videographers) will be allowed on the field from approximately 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. However, due to the procedures associated with attempting to set a world record, all news media will be asked to move to the field’s perimeter (where they can continue to shoot) prior to the 11:30 a.m. event start time.

The Foundation’s Library Associates and Friends of the Gardens groups will host a unique Twilight Garden Party and Progressive Food & Wine Pairing event designed to showcase the relaxing ambiance of the college’s garden areas, while providing an overview of the ongoing Gardens of the Canyons project.

The college’s Twilight Garden Party and Progressive Food & Wine Pairing event will take place from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 9, in the COC Honor Grove, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

At the event guests will enjoy a walking tour of the Gardens of the Canyons areas led by Master gardener Diane Benjamin and local gardening devotee Barbara Schulman.

Throughout the tour COC faculty members will also be on hand to present attendees with an overview of how the college implements its gardens for teaching and learning activities, along with tips about how gardening can help provide access to affordable organic fruits and vegetables.

In addition, guests will have opportunities to peruse the “Birdhouse Extravaganza” art exhibition that will be taking place in the COC Art Gallery, and get a sneak peak at the college’s soon-to-be-completed Library Expansion project.

To conclude the evening, attendees will enjoy a wonderful red wine food pairing in the Library Rose Garden, hosted by long time friend of the college and local wine enthusiast, Dr. Skip Newhall.

Tickets to the Twilight Garden Party and Progressive Food & Wine Pairing are $60 for couples and $35 for individuals. Proceeds from the event will benefit the COC Library Associates and Friends of the Gardens campus groups.

Attendees are asked to RSVP by contacting the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3737. The deadline to register is 5 p.m. Friday, June 1.

This event is being hosted with generous support from signature sponsor Whole Foods Market. Catering is being provided by specialty sponsors Salt Creek Grille and ISSI, the college’s food service contractor.

About Gardens of the Canyons

Providing a place where students, staff and community members can come for inspiration, education and enjoyment through the study of nature, the Gardens of the Canyons is a collection of 21 gardens and natural areas which combine to form one of the college’s most significant scholastic and aesthetic resources.

Fourteen gardens are located at the Valencia campus, and seven are at the Canyon Country campus. At both campuses the gardens are interconnected to form a meandering fitness walk, with signs, maps and trail markers posted along the route. The gardens also serve as outdoor classrooms and laboratories for both students and community members, helping to foster innovation and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of conservation and sustainability.

Since its creation in late 2010, the Gardens of the Canyons project has enhanced the quality of life on both COC campuses, while establishing the college’s gardens as a destination to visit in the Santa Clarita Valley.

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Annual ‘Meet the Grant Makers’ Event Returns June 8

May 16, 2012​

The Office of Grants Development will host its eighth annual ‘Meet the Grant Makers’ panel presentation and seminar event on Friday, June 8, offering Santa Clarita Valley’s non-profits an opportunity to learn how to improve their fundraising efforts and see their organizations thrive.

With the participation of representatives from both The Ahmanson Foundation and Annenberg Foundation, this year’s event will be focused on helping attendees: engage in dialogue with potential donors about their foundation’s major priorities and goals; understand how to make their grant applications stand out; learn how to build meaningful relationships with foundation representatives; network and form partnerships with other non-profit professionals; and successfully secure grants and other forms of aid.

In particular, the panel presentation will be focused on current giving priorities amidst the ongoing economic climate, as well as both targeted and precise grant requests. Panel speakers are scheduled to include:

Professional background: Responsible for the oversight of The Ahmanson Foundation’s many grantmaking activities. Prior to joining the Foundation Mr. Ahmanson enjoyed a career in the banking industry, and also serves on several major foundation boards including the Center Theatre Group, Los Angeles County Museum of Modern Art (LACMA) and Marlborough School in Los Angeles.

Professional background: Responsible for the oversight of the Annenberg Foundation’s Los Angeles program, its staff and all strategic grantmaking decisions. Prior to joining the Annenberg Foundation, Ms. Obagi served as Vice President of The Community College Foundation.

In addition, the program will provide attendees with the opportunity to network with other non-profit organizations to create partnerships and explore the possibility of future collaboration projects. Representatives from more than 30 local non-profit organizations are expected to be in attendance.

“We invite every non-profit organization staff member in the region to attend the Meet the Grant Makers program,” said Elana Helgesen, a grant writer at the college. “Having this type of direct access to a major foundation representative, with the ability to ask questions and share ideas on the spot, will be an extremely beneficial experience for you and your organization.”

“Meet the Grant Makers” will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 8, in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, Room 258, located on the Valencia campus.

Admission to the event and parking in the University Center lot are both complimentary, however attendees are asked to RSVP in advance in order to receive a free parking pass. Attendees that do not register in advance will need to purchase a one-day parking pass for $2 from one the lot’s automated kiosks.

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Standard & Poor’s Affirms AA Rating of College of the Canyons Bonds

May 15, 2012​

Independent financial ratings firm Standard & Poor’s has affirmed its AA status of the college’s existing general obligation bonds (Measure C and Measure M), while also assigning an AA rating and stable outlook for the college’s upcoming sale of $35 million of Measure M general obligation bonds, which hit the market May 16, 2012.

In addition, the college’s roughly $33 million in outstanding certificates of participation (COPs) received an affirmed AA status. The AA rating and stable outlook reflects Standard & Poor's opinion that the Santa Clarita Community College District will likely maintain, what Standard & Poor’s considers “its good operations and solid reserves.”

General obligation bonds are reviewed by two rating agencies — Standard & Poor’s and Fitch — as part of the sale process. Ratings are subjective, with agencies given the latitude to give weight to different factors when deciding on their rating.

Earlier this month the Fitch firm announced a downgraded rating of AA — down one notch from the previous rating of AA+ — for the college’s existing bond transactions, along with an initial rating of AA for the college’s upcoming bond sale.

“We are pleased to once again earn an AA bond rating from both Standard & Poors and Fitch Rating,” Vice President of Business Services Sharlene Coleal said. “In light of the economic conditions that continue to burden the state of California, and the fact that the college has absorbed millions of dollars in cuts while still providing outstanding service to our students and the community, the AA rating underscores the district’s commitment to strong fiscal management while still providing high quality instructional programs.”

The college’s AA rating is in keeping with most other community colleges and K-12 school districts across the state. While some K-12 districts have been able to receive an AAA rating, no community college currently enjoys that status.

By way of comparison, the State of California’s general obligation bonds have an A- rating, while the state itself has an AA rating, having been downgraded from AAA in 1991.

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Theatre Department to Hold ‘Go-Go Beach’ Auditions June 2 and 4

May 15, 2012​

For the third consecutive year, the COC theatre department, in partnership with the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons, will provide students with the opportunity to participate in the West Coast premiere of a musical production by hosting open auditions for the 1960s-inspired pop musical ‘Go-Go Beach.’

A coming-of-age fable story about a surfer who gets into love trouble and the flower child who helps him get back in touch with the waves and find the true meaning of love, ‘Go-Go Beach’ follows in the style of the wildly popular beach party movies of the 1960s.

Being featured as part of this year’s Festival of New American Musicals, ‘Go-Go Beach’ was written by author John Wimbs (book and lyrics) with music by Michael Shaieb and Brent Lord.

Running throughout the spring and summer months, the Festival of New American Musicals celebrates the return of the American musical by showcasing full productions, staged readings, concerts, master classes and other performance-based events in conjunction with performance arts organizations in cities across Southern California.

With an original score inspired by the “surf sound, girl groups and swinging go-go music” of the era, ‘Go-GoBeach’ is described by COC theatre instructor Andrea Slominski as “the ultimate summer show” and “a fun, frolicking foray back to the 1960s.”

“From the hunky surfers and the beautiful beach babes to the free-spirited hippies, and even a loveable science geek, ‘Go-Go Beach’ has all the Southern California-inspired characters that audiences will know and love,” added Slominski, who is also directing the production.

‘Go-Go Beach’ co-producers Paul Wickline, chair of the COC theatre department, and Adam Philipson, PAC managing director, will be looking to cast 11 major roles, along with at least 20 male and female actors, ages 17-25 to form a large ensemble of “beach bums,” “beach bunnies” and hippies. A full cast breakdown of ‘Go-GoBeach’ is listed below:

• Woody — 17 to 20 years old (looking for a male actor with vocal range), an all-American golden boy who was born to surf.

• J.J — 17 to 20 years old (looking for a female actor with vocal range), Woody’s all-American girlfriend.

• Mindy — 20 to 25 year old female, struggling as an un-happy teen pop star.

• Bulldog — 19 to 22 years old (looking for a female with vocal range), a tomboyish surfer girl who is transformed into a wide-eyed flower child after a trip to San Francisco.

• Fingers — 17 to 20 years old (looking for a male with vocal range), Woody’s best buddy.

• Rip — 17 to 20 years old (looking for a male with vocal range), an all-American, dim-witted affable hunk.

• Sammy Leech — mid-30s to 40s (male or female with a vocal range), this “B” movie producer is the type of soft villain that audiences will love to hate.

“We are thrilled to be producing the West Coast premiere of this quintessential 1960s beach musical,” said Wickline. “The score is great fun, the book is clever and often very funny, and best of all, this musical offers many fun roles for actors in their teens and twenties.

“I hope to see a large group of actors, singers and dancers at the auditions,” added Wickline. “Come out and have a blast with us!”

Auditions for ‘Go-Go Beach’ will be held at noon, Saturday, June 2, and 7 p.m., Monday June 4, in the PAC Black Box Theater, located on the college’s Valencia Campus.

Performers are asked to prepare 16 to 32 bars (one to two minutes) of a song from a musical production, or a 1960s song with sheet music. An accompanist will be provided. Music in CD form will not be accepted.

Actors will do cold readings from the script and sing songs from the production. Performers will also be asked to perform a series of simple movements and dance steps during the audition, and are reminded to please dress appropriately.

Callback auditions will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 5. All selected cast members will need to register for at least 1.5 units in the college’s summer session course Theatre 193: Summer Theatre Workshop.

Rehearsals will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and noon to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, beginning the week of June 11.

Performances of ‘Go-Go Beach’ are scheduled to take place July 26 to 28, in the PAC Black Box Theater.

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College’s Habitat Lounge Open House to be Held May 11

May 10, 2012​

Subject: The College of the Canyons Interior Design and Architecture departments will host an Open House event at the college’s new “Habitat Lounge” student exhibition area located at the Westfield Valencia Town Center.

The Habitat Lounge is a temporary exhibition area operated by students from the COC Interior Design and Architecture departments.

Located on Town Center Drive in the heart of the Westfield Valencia Town Center, the lounge is dedicated to helping COC students showcase their work and begin to offer their skills and services to interested businesses and community members.

In addition, COC students are invited to use the Habitat Lounge’s casual setting as a venue to meet with classmates, form study groups, complete assignments and share ideas and be inspired by each other.

Space for the Habitat Lounge has been generously donated by the Westfield Valencia Town Center as a means of helping to promote the various career technical education opportunities available at College of the Canyons.

The Habitat Lounge is open from 2 to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Event: College of the Canyons students, faculty and staff and community members are invited to visit the Habitat Lounge, explore the student work displays and learn more about the COC Interior Design and Architecture departments during this unique Open House event. Light refreshments will be available.

Time: 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, May 11, 2012

Location: COC Habitat Lounge, Town Center Drive, Suite 130

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Orientation to Help High School Grads Find ‘Fast Track’ to Careers

May 9, 2012​

The Employee Training Institute (ETI) and the Santa Clarita WorkSource Center will partner to host a daylong Fast Track Institute program orientation for recent high school graduates and other individuals looking to immediately begin a career in the aerospace or biomedical manufacturing industries.

By focusing on industry sectors where qualified candidates are in high demand — including aerospace and biomedical manufacturing — the Fast Track Institute has been able to successfully connect a number of local employers with a fresh pool of potential applicants.

“Local manufacturing companies are constantly asking us to develop new and innovative ways to train potential job applicants and equip them with the skills they need to be immediately employable,” said John Milburn, director of the COC Employee Training Institute. “This particular Fast Track program is open to those interested in manufacturing careers including graduating high school seniors and others who have a desire to enter the workforce as soon as possible.

“The best part is, this grant-funded program is completely free for qualified candidates, and no previous work experience is required,” added Milburn.

This summer’s Manufacturing Assembler and Technician Training Fast Track program is being funded through a grant from the California Community College’s Economic & Workforce Development (EWD) program’s Job Development Incentive Fund.

Candidates accepted into the program will receive 250 hours of hands-on training spread out over a seven-week period, running June 18 to Aug. 7, 2012. Classes will meet from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with sessions designed to teach a variety of advanced precision assembly functions and manufacturing processes. Other topics of instruction will include:

• Manufacturing safety techniques

• Shop math

• Blueprint reading

• Inspection techniques

• Soldering

• Documentation procedures

• LEAN manufacturing methods

• Communication skills

• Problem solving skills

Upon completion of the program, graduates will also be invited to a private job fair event where they will have the opportunity to meet with potential employers and showcase their recently acquired skillset.

“A number of local employers in both the aerospace and biomedical manufacturing industries have contributed to the development of this program,” Milburn said. “They’ve identified the key skills applicants need to possess in order to be successful in these types of environments, and we’ve made sure to implement that into our training.”

Individuals interested in learning more about this program are invited to attend a free daylong Fast Track orientation event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 12, in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

In order to participate, individuals must register in advance and arrive prior to the event’s 9 a.m. start time. Seating for this event is limited.

Throughout the day attendees will be able to receive more information and ask questions about program requirements, meet with industry professionals to learn more about the type of work they will be performing, submit applications and complete a basic math and English workforce assessment.

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All-Star Musicians to Unite for World-Record Drumming Event

May 7, 2012​

Some of the music industry’s top drummers are putting their collective weight behind ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds,’ an attempt to set the world record for the largest drum circle, which will bring together 7,600 local sixth- and seventh-graders and thousands of community members Friday, May 18, at College of the Canyons Cougar Stadium.

With the participation of legendary musicians Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, John Densmore of The Doors and Remo Belli, founder of REMO Inc., ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ has been designed to both entertain and raise awareness of the value of arts education as a vital component in the development of “The Whole Child.”

This week it was announced that four more of the industry’s top drummers have signed on to appear at the event. Joining Hart and Densmore live on stage will be:

• Gorden Campbell — drummer for Jessica Simpson and George Duke

• Teddy Campbell — drummer for “American Idol” and The Tonight Show Band

• Eric “E-Panda” Hernandez — drummer for Bruno Mars and Taio Cruz

• Mike Phillips — drummer for Janelle Monáe

As the culminating event of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program’s year-long hybrid music education program, it’s hoped that ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ will cast a national spotlight on the Santa Clarita Valley and show what can happen when a community comes together to make a difference in the lives of students.

“We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from College of the Canyons, the participating school districts, the City of Santa Clarita, this community and the many talented artists that are getting behind this tremendous effort,” said Adam Philipson, PAC managing director.

‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ is being produced by the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program, with generous support from Remo Inc., the City of Santa Clarita and several other local businesses, organizations and community members.

From the event’s beginnings as a casual conversation with Rita Garasi, longtime friend of the college and chair of the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Advisory Committee, to an historic communitywide event attended by residents of all ages, ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ reflects the evolution of Santa Clarita’s response to a growing need for prioritizing arts education in its schools, and the critical importance of an entire community’s participation and conversation in that mission.

As part of the project, every sixth- and seventh-grader in the Santa Clarita Valley has received percussion-based music and rhythm instruction, designed to maximize each student’s creative expression, build social and emotional skills and emphasize the process of learning over performance.

Over the last year, preparation for the program has included hands-on music lessons, and even a surprise visit to a local classroom by Hart and Belli, whose company has provided instruments and other forms of logistical support throughout the entire process.

On May 18, community members are invited to come be a part of history, as nearly 7,600 sixth- and seventh-graders from all five of the Santa Clarita Valley’s school districts and approximately 4,000 local residents descend on Cougar Stadium in one historic effort to break the current drum circle world record of 10,180.

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College of the Canyons Recognizes Outstanding Employees

May 2, 2012​

Employees at College of the Canyons were recognized for their contributions to the college during an awards luncheon Thursday, May 3. The luncheon was held with the “twist” that board members, administrators and managers served college “classified” employees a catered meal, this year with a Hawaiian-themed “Hulapalooza” theme.

Classified employees hold support positions at the college. They are most often the behind-the-scenes people who are responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the college.

This is the 16th year that awards have been presented to individuals in several categories. Five awards were presented.

Employee of the Year Award

The award itself recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the college through service to the college. This year’s Employee of the Year is Be Phan, who works in Computer Support, primarily at the college’s Canyon Country Campus. Hired in 2007, Phan has installed, maintained and supported more than 300 computers at the Canyon Country Campus, while also providing support for all Audio/Visual activities at the campus, directing adult hourly staff, and participating in the comprehensive update to the Technology Master Plan earlier this year.

As Employee of the Year, Phan received a decorative plaque and $300.

Gloria Jackson Service Award

The Gloria Jackson Service Award was named after a beloved member of the College of the Canyons communication’s department staff who died in November of 2006. Jackson had worked for 25 years at the college’s switchboard and mailroom and was noted for her depth and breadth of information, her encyclopedic memory for numbers, her outstanding customer service and her endearing laugh.

Noted by her peers as “embodying the highest quality of service — with a smile!” this year’s award winner is Sandra Hernandez. Hernandez serves as an administrative assistant to a number of Deans, and daily interacts with and aids parents, students and community members, and consistently goes out of her way to help. She is a Leadership Education in Action Program (LEAP) graduate, a member of the Bookstore Committee and is a floor warden for her area in the event of an emergency.

The award consists of a decorative plaque and a $100 cash award.

Dare to Dream Award

The Dare to Dream award is given to a person who brings new life, insight or innovative ideas to the job or to the college, has a positive attitude, is inspiring and uplifting to fellow employees, and has demonstrated leadership abilities.

This year’s winner is Lynne Mayer, Administrative Assistant to the Chancellor’s Office. Mayer’s responsibilities include compiling and distributing the Board of Trustees meeting agendas in accordance with state law. Mayer conducted research and found an online technology solution for preparing the Board of Trustees meeting agendas called Board Docs. She played an instrumental role in its implementation while working closely with the IT department, and its use has paid enormous dividends in efficiency for the District.

The award consists of a decorative plaque and a $100 cash award.

Humanitarian Award

The college’s Humanitarian Award went to Janet Cetrone. This award acknowledges an indispensable contribution to the college and cites community involvement and dedication and volunteer work to the campus and community. Cetrone, who works in the Biology Lab, thoroughly enjoys being involved in the caring of COC’s fine-feathered friends — and a host of other critters from time to time — including most recently some adorable baby owls. Off campus, she volunteers with FixNation, which captures feral cats, fixes and immunizes them, and returns them to the wild. She also volunteers and participates in events for the American Cancer Society and teaches self-defense classes for women.

The award consists of a decorative plaque and a $100 cash award.

Personal Achievement Award

A decorative plaque and a $100 cash award also went to Sharon Kramer, the winner of this year’s Professional Achievement Award. Hired in 2008, Kramer made the commitment to go back to school to finish the coursework needed to earn her Associate’s degree as an Accounting Technician, and will be graduating from COC June 1.

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​JUNE

350-Plus Jobs Up for Grabs at Santa Clarita WorkSource Center

June 27, 2012​

The WorkSource Center at College of the Canyons is currently working with a number of local employers to identify qualified candidates and help fill more than 350 open positions in the distribution/fulfillment (shipping and receiving) and manufacturing industries.

Available positions range from entry level to advanced skill labor and upper management, with most jobs located right here in Santa Clarita or nearby San Fernando Valley. While many of the positions are entry level, a number of employers have expressed a need for candidates with amanufacturing/distribution background, as well as management/supervisor experience.

Through June and July, the WorkSource Center will host recruitment events to assist jobseekers interested in these positions, while also continuing to collect resumes and match potential candidates with local employers through its online database.

The next job recruitment event will take place at 9 a.m. Thursday, June 28, in the Santa Clarita WorkSource Center, located inside the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, on the college’s Valencia campus (University Center Drive entrance).

The event will be focused on filling a number of seasonal (six-month-long) manufacturing positions including: packers, forklift drivers, machine operators, quality inspectors, general warehouse personnel and line leads. Wages range from $8.50 to $14.50 an hour.

Potential candidates are asked to arrive before 9 a.m., and if selected for screening should be prepared to stay throughout the morning/afternoon.

About the WorkSource Center

Located inside the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on the college’s Valencia campus, the Santa Clarita WorkSource Center’s mission is to help bring local employers and job seekers together.

For job seekers who are unemployed, underemployed, reentering the workforce, changing careers or looking to enter the workforce for the first time, the WorkSource Center provides a truly “one-stop shopping” experience where visitors are able to search local job listings, explore new careers, meet with in-office employment specialists, prepare resumes and connect with potential employers by using the Center’s full service technical center.

In an ever-increasing effort to help spur economic development throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, College of the Canyons and the City of Santa Clarita have entered into a partnership that will allow for additional integration between the college’s Economic Development Division and the WorkSource Center, while introducing local job seekers to the robust educational and career training opportunities available at the college.

For more information about the listing of available positions and/or upcoming job recruitment events, call the Santa Clarita WorkSource Center at (661) 799-WORK (9675).

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Career-Minded Individuals Invited to CareerCampSCV July 14

June 25, 2012​

This summer, the College of the Canyons Career Center will present CareerCampSCV, a free daylong event designed to assist students and community members who are looking to build, enhance or start a new career.

CareerCampSCV will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, July 14, in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located on the Valencia campus.

Described as a hybrid “conference/un-conference,” CareerCampSCV differs from other career-orientated events due to the fact that the day’s discussions and activities will be created based on the interests and involvement of the attendees.

The event will also include guest speakers, ad-hoc presentations and interactive breakout sessions focused on the various aspects of both building and improving one’s professional career — no matter their age, experience or career field.

“Attendees can come to simply listen and learn, or they may choose to get more involved and lead a discussion in their own area of expertise,” said Anthony Michaelides, director of the COC Career Center. “But the ultimate goal is for everyone to leave with some new contacts, useful information and encouraging leads that will help them move to the next step in their careers.”

Though CareerCampSCV admission and parking are free, those planning to attend this event must register in advance, as space is limited.

For more information or to register follow the link below or call the Career Center at (661) 362-3286.

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Educators to Participate in PAC Professional Development Seminar

June 20, 2012​

Subject: The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons is hosting a four-day, interactive arts education professional development seminar for local K-12 educators.

Event: More than 50 local educators have been invited to the PAC as part of the Santa Clarita Valley K-12 Arts Education Consortium’s professional development summer training program.

Throughout the four-day event, which began Tuesday, June 19, attendees have been provided a number of valuable tools and techniques that can be used to help integrate arts into the classroom.

Participants have also been presented opportunities to address the various arts curriculum requirements, while working to develop concrete and measurable ways to enhance arts education for all students.

Funded through a grant from the Clarence Heller Foundation, this free program is based on the belief that educating teachers is an essential component of any effort to increase the artistic literacy of young people, and operates with a goal to help educators discover the many benefits of integrating arts with other forms of curriculum.

On Thursday morning, those in attendance will be participating in two interactive units involving the themes “poetry in motion” and “hip-hop dance.”

The College of the Canyons Valencia campus’ brand new Community Garden area continues to take shape, thanks to the recent efforts of West Ranch High School student Brad Johnston and his fellow scouts from Boy Scout Troop 228 in Santa Clarita.

Earlier this month, Johnston, 14, was responsible for organizing a daylong community service project at the Valencia campus, which resulted in theconstruction and installation of 22 wooden planter boxes in the college’s Community Garden area, located on the south end of campus on the corner across from Aliso Lab and Towsley Hall.

As a requirement of Johnston’s bid to become an Eagle Scout, the service project was designed to benefit both the college and surrounding community, while at the same time providing Johnston and his fellow scouts an opportunity to learn, develop and demonstrate their leadership skills.

With the help and coordination of more than 30 volunteers — who spent the day carrying, sawing, hammering and assembling the boxes — and several members of the college’s Facilities department, Johnston and his team were able to successfully reach their goal.

“I had a good time working on this project, and was lucky to have so many people come out to help me,” said Johnston. “I learned a lot about leadership, and I’m glad I could help the college.”

Now that the planter boxes and surrounding irrigation system have been installed, future upgrades for the Community Garden area include a wood-chip ground covering, the presence of fruit trees and compost bins and construction of a deck area that can be used for hosting gardening lectures.

About Gardens of the Canyons

Providing a place where students, staff and community members can come for inspiration, education and enjoyment through the study of nature, the Gardens of the Canyons is a collection of 21 gardens and natural areas which combine to form one of the college’s most significant scholastic and aesthetic resources.

Fourteen gardens are located at the Valencia campus, and seven are at the Canyon Country campus. At both campuses the gardens are interconnected to form a meandering fitness walk, with signs, maps and trail markers posted along the route. The gardens also serve as outdoor classrooms and laboratories for both students and community members, helping to foster innovation and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of conservation and sustainability.

Since its creation in late 2010, the Gardens of the Canyons project has enhanced the quality of life on both COC campuses, while establishing the college’s gardens as a destination to visit in the Santa Clarita Valley.

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SHARP Program Info Meetings June 20 and 25, July 5, 9 and 11

June 19, 2012​

Students and community members interested in learning more about the College of the Canyons Skills for Healthy Aging Resources and Programs (SHARP) certificate program are invited to attend one of five upcoming program information sessions taking place throughout June and July.

Having debuted at COC in the fall of 2011, the 12-unit SHARP program was the first program of its kind to be offered anywhere in the nation.

Designed for students to be able to complete in as little as one semester, the SHARP program is geared toward individuals interested in pursuing a career in aging services or the larger health-care industry.

By providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to begin assisting older adults through the delivery of various types of evidence-based health promotion (EBHP) strategies, the SHARP program has also been successful in placing student interns at community agencies and organizations, which specialize in serving older adults.

In fact, SHARP program coordinators have already been able to help place a number of former students in internships at more than 15 such Los Angeles area community organizations and agencies.

“Over the past year the SHARP program has graduated 50 highly motivated students who are passionate about working with older adults,” said Dr. Patty Robinson, dean of Social Sciences and Business at the college and SHARP program coordinator.

“This program addresses a core, yet neglected, need within our society,” Robinson said, “and the college is excited to be able to help meet that need.”

Students interested in learning more about the one-semester SHARP program and the growing number of employment opportunities available in the aging services and health care industries, should plan on attending one of five upcoming information sessions being held at the college’s Valencia campus in Hasley Hall, Room 232 at the following dates and times:

• 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 20

• 5 to 6 p.m. Monday, June 25

• 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, July 5

• 4 to 5 p.m. Monday, July 9

• 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 11

The SHARP program was formed in collaboration with College of the Canyons, Santa Barbara City College, Partners in Care Foundation, National Council on Aging, California Geriatric Education Center and the California Council on Gerontology and Geriatrics, with funding from the U.S. Department of Education.

Upon completion of the program students will be able to pursue employment in the aging services industry.

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​JULY

A Day-Tripper’s Delight: Community Education Offers Single-Day Tours

July 26, 2012​

Beginning in September, the College of the Canyons Community Education department will offer local residents the chance to venture out of the Santa Clarita Valley and explore some of Southern California’s most popular destinations, with a series of single-day tours scheduled to take place throughout the fall semester.

COC Community Education single-day tours are intended for adult community members of all ages, who are interested in experiencing some of the Los Angeles region’s most famous and culturally significant buildings, plazas, museums, restaurants and historical landmarks, with the help of aknowledgeable and professionally trained tour guide.

All tours are developed and operated by the fully licensed tour operator Good Times Travel, using the company’s fleet of fully equipped luxury motor coaches and staff of professionally trained tour directors.

Single-day tour prices vary according to schedule and destination. However, all trips include round trip transportation from the college’s Valencia campus to the tour’s destination and all admission costs associated with the trip — along with an abundance of sightseeing and photo opportunities.

As the first event in the series, COC Community Education is currently taking reservations for a single-day tour to the Getty Villa in Malibu, on Saturday, Sept. 1.

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Getty Villa was reopened in 2006 as home to the Getty’s antiquities collection. Containing more than 1,200 Greek, Roman and Etruscan artifacts dating from 6500 B.C to A.D. 600, the Getty Villa is the only museum in the country dedicated solely to antiquities from the Mediterranean region.

The cost of the trip is $59 per person, with the chartered motor coach scheduled to depart from the COC Valencia campus promptly at 9:15 a.m. and return at approximately 5 p.m. that evening. Attendees will be responsible for providing their own lunch, with the Villa’s on-site café offering guests a variety of food and beverage options to choose from.

“We are very excited about this collaboration with Good Time Travel,” said Diane Stewart, dean, Community Education. “These single-day tours will provide wonderful opportunities for the residents of Santa Clarita to get out of town for the day, and explore some of the cultural treasures of the region.”

Additional single-day tours being offered by Community Education this fall include:

Be amazed by the treasures of yesteryear and receive a fascinating perspective on some of Los Angeles’ best-known and nostalgic landmarks, on this tour designed to showcase the city’s rich art, architecture and cultural history. The day will include visits inside the Biltmore Hotel, Union Station, Grand Central Market, the Bradbury Building (pending filming schedule), the Garment District, California Plaza and Olvera Street. Also included is a ride to the top of Bunker Hill, on the recently re-opened Angels Flight, regarded as the shortest railway in the world!

Attendees will enjoy an all-you-can-eat champagne brunch and live magical performance inside the magnificent Hollywood, Victorian-style mansion known as The Magic Castle. Normally closed to the general public, The Magic Castle was originally built in 1908, but has yet to lose any of its original charm. Today, it’s considered by magicians all over the world to be the premier magic venue and virtual “center” of the magician’s universe!

Note: There is a required dress code for this event of “country club” attire (no jeans, shorts or sandals). Guests must also be able to walk up a steep driveway in order to enter the venue.

Start the holiday season right with a trip to the historic Castle Green in Pasadena. Normally off limits to the public, for one afternoon each December the doors are opened so that visitors can view the creative interior design and cultural heritage of this architectural treasure all dressed up for the holidays! Built in 1898 as the second of three buildings making up the famous Hotel Green, the location went on to host a myriad of vacationing presidents, tycoons and celebrities in its heyday, and is now the private residence of several Pasadena area designers, musicians and artists. Even today, the Castle Green is considered to be one of Southern California’s most unique and beautiful buildings! During the trip attendees will be able to roam the Castle’s grounds and gardens through an all-encompassing self-guided tour, with docents available to share stories and answer questions. Opportunities to shop and dine in nearby Old Town Pasadena will also be included. Note: Walking shoes are suggested for this trip.

For all trips, passengers are encouraged to arrive on campus at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. Return times are approximate.

Single-day parking permits and associated parking instructions will be sent to registered passengers prior to each tour. In addition, passengers should be aware that driver gratuities are not included in the tour price, but are highly encouraged.

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Local Students Come to College for Summer Camp Fun

July 23, 2012​

Subject: The College of the Canyons Summer Institute and COC Athletics Youth Summer Sports Camps will be taking place at the college’s Valencia campus through the end of July, with a large number of local elementary, junior high and high school students scheduled to participate each day.

Event: The COC Summer Institute is open to students entering the seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth grades. The goal of the Summer Institute is to provide hands-on career exploration and learning opportunities to students in a variety of areas and subjects including: culinary arts, robotics, motion picture special effects, video game design, sports medicine, rocketry, aeronautics, welding and alternative energy fabrication.

Each track allows participating students to discover a multitude of career possibilities through a unique blend of innovative lesson plans and fun hands-on activities that are scheduled each week.

Staffed and run by COC coaches and athletes, the annual COC athletics summer youth sports camps provide an affordable way for kids of all skill levels to learn a new sport or take their games to the next level. This summer the college offered camps focused on baseball, football, basketball, soccer and volleyball.

Time: The COC Summer Institute’s junior high tracks will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily through Friday, July 27. High school Summer Institute tracks will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday, July 30 through Friday, Aug. 3.

The remaining COC Athletics Youth Summer Camps (football and volleyball) will run at the following times:

• Football — 9 a.m. to noon through Thursday, July 26

• Volleyball — 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through Thursday, July 26

Location: Summer Institute classes and activities will be held in a number of locations around the college’s Valencia campus (please check with Summer Institute director for specific classroom locations).

The COC Athletics youth football camp will be held inside Cougar Stadium. The volleyball camp will take place in the main gymnasium of the college’s West P.E building.

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‘Rock the Rhythm’ a Success, Despite Falling Short of World Record

July 17, 2012​

On May 18, 2012, nearly all of Santa Clarita’s sixth- and seventh-graders celebrated the power of music and arts education at Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds, a joint venture between College of the Canyons and Remo, Inc., which took place in Cougar Stadium. Unfortunately, despite having more than 7,000 students in attendance on the field and close to another 3,000 attendees in the stands, the Guinness Book of World Records ruled that the event came up short in its attempt to break the standing record for largest percussion ensemble.

“The attempt at the record was just a part of what this event was truly about — shining a spotlight on the need to keep arts education alive in schools and what can happen when a community comes together in support of developing the whole child,” said Adam Philipson, managing director of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons. “And, in that mission, I think everyone can agree, we succeeded with flying colors.”

The day’s event was a culmination of a year-long program of music and rhythm training in the valley’s sixth- and seventh-grade classrooms, delivered by staff from Remo, Inc. and the PAC’s K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program. The afternoon was filled with music performances and visits from a “who’s-who” list of the drumming world’s greatest performers, including Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, John Densmore of The Doors, and Rikki Rockett of Poison. The throngs of colorfully clad kids — each armed with ‘sound shape’ percussion instrument produced by Remo, Inc. — were also treated with a surprise visit from former Academy of the Canyons student-turned-actor Tyler Posey, who stars on MTV’s “Teen Wolf.”

Local VIPs who turned out for the event included board members from the college and local school districts, city council members and representatives from local congressional and assembly offices. College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook and Remo Belli served as honorary masters of ceremony for the day’s event.

“We are disappointed about the decision to not accept our record breaking attempt, but won’t allow that to overshadow the success of the program and the magnitude and impact of our celebratory culmination,” said Belli. “Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds demonstrated the Santa Clarita Valley’s genuine community spirit, and showed that the Beat the Odds program really does work.

“This event will live forever in the minds of those who were a part of it,” added Belli, “and this community will feel the reverberations for years to come.”

For more information about ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ or the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program, contact Adam Philipson at (661) 362-5305.

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Theatre Department Presents ‘Go-Go Beach’ July 26 to 29

July 12, 2012​

Community members are invited to attend the quintessential beach party of the summer, live on stage at College of the Canyons, as the COC theatre department presents its production of the 1960s-inspired musical ‘Go-Go Beach,’ running July 26-29.

A coming-of-age fable story about a surfer who gets into love trouble and the flower child who helps him get back in touch with the waves and find the true meaning of love, ‘Go-Go Beach’ follows in the style of the wildly popular beach party movies of the 1960s.

“‘Go-Go Beach’ is the perfect Southern California musical,” said COC theatre professor Andrea Slominski, who is directing the production. “It’s asinnocent and effervescent as the summer after high school graduation, a time of sun, surfing, sand and romance. Yet, just beneath the surface, there is a very real social undercurrent about to sweep away all that is familiar and safe.”

Being featured as part of this year’s Festival of New American Musicals, ‘Go-Go Beach’ was written by author John Wimbs (book and lyrics) with music by Michael Shaieb and Brent Lord.

Running throughout the spring and summer months, the Festival of New American Musicals (FNAM) celebrates the return of the American musical by showcasing full productions, staged readings, concerts, master classes and other performance-based events in conjunction with performance arts organizations in cities across Southern California.

"It’s truly thrilling to finally see ‘Go-Go Beach’ staged in southern California, where the story actually takes place,” said Wimbs. “I’d like to thank everyone at College of the Canyons for their dedication to helping create new musical theatre for this wonderful festival.”

For the fourth time in as many years, the COC theatre department and the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) have joined forces to participate in the FNAM, giving COC students a chance to perform in a workshop version of a new musical, while working with professional writers and musicians and earning college credit.

“By incorporating these workshop productions into a summer class, we have given our students a very unique opportunity in the world of musical theatre,” said Paul Wickline, chair of the COC theatre department and co-producer of the production.

The COC theatre department’s production of ‘Go-Go Beach’ will open Thursday, July 26, and run for one weekend only in the PAC’s Black Box Theater. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. July 26-28, and 2 p.m. July 29.

General admission tickets are $20 and will be on sale at the door, approximately one hour before the start of the performance.

“We are ‘stoked’ to offer audiences the opportunity to step back in time and relive — or experience for the first time — the beach movies of the era in this fun, frolicking, foray back to the 1960s,” Wickline said.

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Center for Early Childhood Education Now Accepting Applications

July 12, 2012​

The Center for Early Childhood Education (ECE) is currently accepting applications for the upcoming school year, with a limited number of full and half-day openings available for both toddler and preschool aged children.

The ECE Center’s fall semester will begin Monday, Aug. 20, with registration scheduled to take place through July and early August.

The Center’s full day program will run from 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m., while half-day classes run from either 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. or 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. (extended hours may be available for early drop off and late pick up options).

In addition, families that apply now but are unable to enroll for fall 2012 will have their applications on file with the Center in advance of subsequent semesters. Financial assistance is also available to families that qualify.

“I encourage any interested parents to stop by the Center and pick up an application today,” said Wendy Ruiz, director of infant/toddler programs at the Center. “We would love to have you and your child join our family!”

About the Center for Early Childhood Education

With facilities conveniently located on the college’s Valencia and Canyon Country campuses, the ECE Center offers both full and half-day programs for toddlers ages 12 to 30 months and preschoolers ages 3 to 4, and is committed to providing a high-quality educational experience, in a developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive learning environment.

The primary focus of the program is to promote feelings of competence and self-worth that will serve as a strong foundation for the children’s future growth and educational development.

The Center is licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Division and has maintained accreditation with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Academy of Early Childhood Programs, since 1985.

All of the Center’s staff members — including a site supervisor, master teacher, associate teacher and teacher’s aide — hold a child development permit from the state commission on teacher credentialing.

Currently celebrating its 30th year of operation, the college’s ECE Center has incorporated a program structured around the state’s recommended preschool learning foundations.

By maintaining a low student to teacher ratio in its classes, the Center’s staff work to provide children with a variety of creative materials and curriculum intended to stimulate learning and social interaction, and designed to develop and support language arts, math/science, dramatic play, music, movement, social/emotional and creativity skills.

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Foundation Golf Tourney Slated at Valencia Country Club Aug. 6

July 3, 2012​

Golfers will have the opportunity to get out of the office and onto the golf course — all in the name of education — during the College of the Canyons Foundation’s 22nd Annual Golf Tournament, taking place Monday, Aug. 6, at Valencia Country Club.

Proceeds from this year’s event will help support scholarship funds dedicated to College of the Canyons students who are looking to enter or re-enter the workforce after time spent away from the educational arena, as well as other student support programs at the college.

Included in this group are veterans returning home from the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, adult re-entry students looking to complete their education goals and eventually return to the workforce, as well as recently unemployed students who are returning to school in order to help jump-start a new career.

The populations of these particular student groups have surged at College of the Canyons in recent years. In fact, in 2012 46 veteran students received degrees from COC, nearly double the amount that received degrees in 2011 (24) and more than tripling the mark set in 2010 (14).

Meanwhile, the average age of a COC graduate is 26, which indicates that many of the college’s students are indeed returning to the classroom after spending time pursuing other career and family related endeavors.

“We are excited to be supporting student scholarships through this year’s tournament,” said Steve Chegwin, chair of the Foundation’s golf tournament committee. “Scholarships provide much needed financial support to students in these challenging economic times, and can be especially helpful to single parents, returning veterans and recently unemployed community members trying to balance school with life’s other responsibilities.”

According to the COC Financial Aid Office, on average it costs a full time College of the Canyons student roughly $2,800 per school year for academic fees, textbooks and supplies.

For students who provide for their own room and board, transportation and other personal expenses, the cost of a year of college can top out at more than $11,000, making the price of attending college one of the greatest barriers students will face on their educational journey.

In response, the COC Foundation has continually worked to raise funds — through annual giving, special events and endowment programs — to provide increased educational opportunities for students and community members of all ages.

“In essence, tournament participants will be supporting COC students beyond what public funding will allow,” said Chegwin. “Sometimes just having the knowledge that others believe in them, can make all the difference in the world for these students.”

With plenty of opportunities to participate as both a player and sponsor, last year’s tournament featured more than 90 golfers teeing off in the name of education!

Single player tournament sponsorships begin at $350, with each player receiving breakfast provided by tournament sponsors Morton Manufacturing and Chronic Cantina, cart and greens fees, driving range privileges, a player’s gift bag, lunch and beverages provided by tournament sponsor Aerospace Dynamics International, and participation in a post tournament awards reception.

Participants 21 and over will also have opportunities to partake in a special on-course beer tasting hosted by COC Foundation board member Skip Newhall, and receive complimentary margaritas provided by Chronic Cantina.

Other sponsorship opportunities include the $1,750 ‘Birdie Sponsor’, which includes four player spots (with all single player benefits), a tee sign and recognition as an event sponsor in all tournament publications.

Tournament participants also have the option of sponsoring a three-man team and filling the final spot in the foursome with a current or former member of College of the Canyons men’s and women’s championship golf teams.

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​AUGUST

Invitation to Cover College of the Canyons Opening Day Celebration

August 23, 2012​

Subject: College of the Canyons annual Opening Day Celebration

Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, 2012

Place: College of the Canyons Physical Education West gymnasium

Event: As a kickoff to the fall 2012 semester, College of the Canyons will host its annual Opening Day Celebration with all faculty, staff and administrators invited to attend.

The event will begin at 11 a.m. with a cheese and chocolate tasting hosted by the COC Institute for Culinary Education (iCuE), followed by lunch prepared by ISSI, the college’s contracted food service provider.

During the event College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook will address the crowd with a speech designed to recap some of the college’s most recent achievements, while highlighting some of the more significant events and initiatives scheduled to take place throughout the 2012-13 academic year.

In addition, a number of longtime college employees will be recognized for their distinguished service to the district. Included among the honorees will be lead biological sciences faculty member Don Takeda, who is celebrating his 40th anniversary at COC.

Takeda — who was just the second biology instructor ever to be hired at the college — began his career at COC in January 1972, and is credited with significantly enhancing the college’s biology department by working to develop new courses and continually incorporating industry changes and technology into the curriculum. During that time a number of Takeda’s former students have also gone on to become teachers, pharmacists, veterinarians, nurses, medical doctors and biological researchers.

To conclude the afternoon, the college’s Audio & Visual Support department will present a slide show of the many college events and activities that took place at both the Valencia and Canyon Country campuses, throughout the last year.

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Fall Semester Fast Track Orientation Scheduled for Sept. 7

August 22, 2012​

Returning veterans, recent high school graduates and other individuals looking to immediately begin a new career in the aerospace, high technology and biomedical manufacturing industries are invited to attend a daylong Fast Track Institute program orientation being hosted by the College of the Canyons Employee Training Institute (ETI) and the Santa Clarita WorkSource Center.

This fall’s Manufacturing Assembler and Technician Training Fast Track program is being funded through a grant from the California Community College’s Economic & Workforce Development (EWD) program’s Job Development Incentive Fund — and is available to participants at no charge.

Candidates accepted into the program will receive 250 hours of hands-on training spread out over a seven-week period, running Sept. 18 to Nov. 2, 2012.

Classes will meet from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with sessions designed to teach a variety of advanced precision assembly functions and manufacturing processes. Other topics of instruction will include:

• Manufacturing safety techniques

• Shop math

• Blueprint reading

• Inspection techniques

• Soldering

• Documentation procedures

• LEAN manufacturing methods

• Communication skills

• Problem solving skills

Upon completion of the program, graduates will also be invited to a private job fair event where they will have the opportunity to meet with potential employers and showcase their recently acquired skillset.

“We have had tremendous results in helping participants begin careers in aerospace, biomedical and other high-tech industries through the Fast Track program,” said John Milburn, director of the COC Employee Training Institute. “This intensive training program, coupled with the private job fair at the end of the program, has been very effective in providing participants of all ages and abilities the skills they need to be successful in today’s highly competitive job market.”

Individuals interested in learning more about this program are invited to attend a free daylong Fast Track orientation event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 7, in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located on the college’s Valencia campus (University Center Drive entrance).

In order to participate, individuals must register in advance and arrive prior to the event’s 9 a.m. start time. Seating for this event is limited.

Throughout the day attendees will be able to receive more information and ask questions about program requirements, meet with industry professionals to learn more about the type of work they will be performing, submit applications and complete a basic math and English workforce assessment.

By focusing on industry sectors where qualified candidates are in high demand, the Fast Track Institute is able to successfully connect local employers with a fresh pool of potential applicants who are trained to work in their particular industry sector.

To keep the program up-to-date with current industry needs and practices, the college has also partnered with a number of local manufacturing employers to help identify the key skills and attributes applicants need to possess in order to be successful in these types of work environments.

Place: College of the Canyons band room, located on the second floor of Pico Hall, Room 202.

Event: World-renowned jazz musician Chris Botti will participate in a unique master class with local students from the GVHS jazz band. This master class is being held as part of the PAC’s ongoing K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program.

Class activities are expected to begin at 6 p.m., with Mr. Botti scheduled to arrive at approximately 6:30 p.m.

About the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program

Launched in 2008, the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program continues to provide incredible opportunities for the youth of the Santa Clarita Valley through valuable partnerships with major arts organizations in California and across the nation.

The program uses the college’s cultural and community resources to introduce Santa Clarita’s student population to top-tier, visual and performing arts standard-based arts activities and integrated performing arts learning opportunities.

Through school assemblies, bus-in programs, classroom visits and family performances, students can enjoy performances that meet or exceed the state of California’s Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) standards.

The Outreach Program has at its core a collaborative approach, partnering with teachers and administrators in school districts and community-based organizations throughout the area to develop an enhanced arts education curriculum and a variety of unique educational opportunities for all students.

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Canyon Country Campus to Hold Fifth Anniversary Open House Sept. 8

August 20, 2012​

In commemoration of the Canyon Country Campus’ five-year anniversary this fall, College of the Canyons will host a community wide Open House Celebration designed to welcome visitors of all ages onto campus for a fun filled afternoon of events and activities.

“We are proud of the continued development of the campus since it opened five years ago. Its growth demonstrates our commitment to providing resources and creating opportunities for local residents to achieve their educational goals,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne VanHook. “The Open House offers a chance to not only celebrate what we have accomplished, but also inspire the next class of students to take advantage of all the campus has to offer.”

The Canyon Country Campus Fifth Anniversary Community Open House Celebration will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, in the campus’ main quad area, located adjacent to Cougar Way and the Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater.

At the event, potential students and parents looking to learn more about the college’s various academic and career training programs, or how to get a jump start on the process to become a student, will be able to get the information they need during one of several information workshops taking place throughout the day.

The day’s activities will also include a no-host barbeque lunch prepared by Canyons Café, along with other snacks, sweets and treats being provided free of charge by the college’s Associated Student Government (ASG). A number of local food vendors are also expected to be on hand with goods for sale.

All attendees will also be entered to win one of several prizes being raffled away at the conclusion of the event.

Upon arrival, Open House visitors will have the opportunity to experience the campus through a series of casual, self-guided tour stops, which will showcase various classroom, laboratories and instructional spaces — including the Applied Technology Education Center (ATEC), Early Childhood Education (ECE) Center and community garden areas.

Other stops along the way will feature the campus’ computer lounge, art room and learning center, along with a special presentation highlighting the campus’ transformation over the last five years.

Throughout the tour, visitors will also have access to several faculty led interactive instruction demos in disciplines including automotive technology, biological and environmental science, solar technology, anthropology and theatre arts.

Guests who complete the tour and have their event program stamped at each stop along the way, will receive additional raffle tickets, providing an even greater chance to win a prize and join in the celebration.

“Fueled by innovative facilities, an active student life, bustling classrooms and a beautiful natural setting, the Canyon Country campus continues to thrive,” said Ryan Theule, acting dean of the Canyon Country campus. “Our five year anniversary celebration will be a wonderful chance for us to commemorate all that has been accomplished in that time, along with the continued opportunities available to students at COC.”

After the tour, guests will be invited back to the main quad area for the afternoon’s live entertainment, provided by local rock band Soto 3, which is comprised of current and former COC students.

In addition, the ECE Center will be hosting a number of children’s games and activities that the entire family can enjoy.

The College of the Canyons Canyon Country Campus is located at 17262 Sierra Highway in Canyon Country.

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Art Gallery Invites Community to Experience ‘Big, Big Backyard’

August 20, 2012​

To begin the fall 2012 semester, the College of the Canyons Art Gallery will present the eclectic, community inspired art exhibition ‘Big, Big Backyard,’ opening Tuesday, Aug. 21.

The artists being featured in ‘Big, Big Backyard’ have created a series of interactive visual artworks — including photo essays, graphic design, film and video, sculpture, performance and live art — which are meant to serve as catalysts for social interaction and exchange.

For these artists, ideas and interpretations of community are the starting point for projects designed to prod, provoke and engage the viewer, while encouraging a celebration and examination of the modern, often interactive culture, found in one’s own “backyard.”

“This is quite a unique exhibition for the college, as it represents the first time we have presented work that is intentionally interactive in nature,” said Larry Hurst, COC Art Gallery director. “The works on display will all involve the viewer, and indeed are dependent upon that involvement. I think that this will be a provocative experience for all who attend.”

During the exhibition, visitors approaching the gallery will encounter “The Idea Truck,” where they may select or exchange an idea from an open-ended menu of options.

Upon entering the gallery, guests will then have a variety of interactive displays and artistically influenced narratives to explore. Among the pieces included in this exhibit will be:

• The video project “Trading Places,” which includes paired recorded interviews and video footage where participants tell each other’s stories. This juxtaposition of a participant's voice and story over another's body evokes strange feelings of dislocation, and offers different perspectives on what is to be a bicultural person living in Los Angeles today.

• The nature inspired video project “Enclave,” in which the artist has incorporated various elements of video footage to collage his own personal garden, complete with accompanying sounds of nature recorded at the Monet gardens in France.

• A photographic conversation, inspired by the online photo project “Picture Consequences,” in which the contributing artists have challenged themselves to communicate through the exchange of images as a way to showcase the power photos have as a form of language, metaphor, riddle and game.

• A collection of artistically inspired goods and products known as ‘Deep Craft’ which are created using natural materials as a means to reinvigorate the role of handmade items, and examine the relationship between individuals and their settings. In addition, California based artist Scott Constable of Deep Craft, will be working live in the gallery, to screen print the Deep Craft logo on the personal possessions of gallery visitors.

“These works all focus on various interpretations of community. Within the communal gallery space the viewer will have the possibility to participate, reflect, question, augment, praise and protest,” said guest curator and COC photography instructor Betsy Kenyon.

The exhibition ‘Big, Big Backyard’ will run from Tuesday, Aug. 21, through Tuesday, Sept. 18. Kenyon will also deliver a special presentation about the exhibition from 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22.

An artist’s reception will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 30, in the Art Gallery.

Also accompanying the exhibition will be a screening of the independent film ‘Breakfast with Curtis’ by Laura Colella, at 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, in Hasley Hall, Room 101.

All gallery visitors will also receive a free double-sided poster inspired by the exhibition and created by COC design students.

The College of the Canyons Art Gallery is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Those unable to visit the gallery during normal hours are welcome to call (661) 362-3612 to schedule a viewing appointment. All gallery exhibitions and related events are free and open to the public.

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SHARP Students Already Experiencing Career Success

August 14, 2012​

As the College of the Canyons Skills for Healthy Aging Resources and Programs (SHARP) program prepares to enter its second year of operation this fall, a number of recent SHARP graduates are already beginning to see their new skill sets produce results.

The college’s SHARP program is geared toward individuals interested in pursuing a career in aging services or the larger health-care industry. By providing students with the skills needed to assist older adults and deliver various types of evidence-based health promotion (EBHP) strategies, the SHARP program has been able to help address a core, yet neglected, need within the industry.

“With more than 10,000 adults becoming ‘older adults’ every day, aging services and the management of chronic health conditions have become major areas of focus throughout the state,” said Dr. Patty Robinson, dean of socialsciences and business at the college and SHARP program coordinator. “As a result, the agencies and organizations dedicated to addressing these issues are increasingly looking for qualified applicants to work in these areas.”

Since its inception in the fall of 2011, the SHARP program has produced 50 graduates of various ages and career interests. Of that group, several have already started to apply their training for both personal and professional purposes.

“Before enrolling in the program, I didn’t know anything about the existence of evidence-based health programs,” said SHARP program graduate Kathryn Keogh, who originally enrolled in the program to enhance her resume and eventually attain new employment.

However, since enrolling in the program in spring 2012, Keogh has completed the 12-units of coursework along with all associated field requirements, and was recently hired by Partners in Care Foundation.

“I’m putting everything I learned in the program to work,” said Keogh, whose job responsibilities include the implementation of grant funded statewide evidence-based programs for older adults. “But I’m also able to use what I’ve learned in my personal life as my parents begin to age.”

Indeed, the SHARP program has also provided many students with skills and knowledge that can be applied both in the workplace and throughout their personal lives.

“Through this program I’ve learned a lot about the older adult population, but it doesn't stop there,” said SHARP program graduate Lizbeth Naranjo. “I’m now better able to understand my grandparents’ health issues, the types of health issues my parents will eventually go through, and how important it is for everyone to start taking action with their own health habits.”

Other students — especially those who might already fall into the older adult category — have even used the program to get a better grip on their own personal health issues.

“My interest came after I read an article about the SHARP program and thought to myself, ‘Wouldn’t it be great to take a course and learn about me?’ And learn I did,” said SHARP program graduate Edward Shain, 78.

“My decision was not made with any particular career in mind,” added Shain. “I just really wanted to learn more about the segment of society I am a part of, and what the future holds for us as a group.”

Students and community members interested in learning more about the College of the Canyons Skills for Healthy Aging Resources and Programs (SHARP) certificate program are invited to attend one of three upcoming program information sessions being held at the Valencia campus in Hasley Hall, Room 230 at the following dates and times:

• 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 14

• 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 15

• 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 16

“This is a wonderful program, and I encourage anyone interested in preparing for their own future, helping with aging relatives or looking for an interesting new career path to invest one semester and add the SHARP certificate to your degree, resume and life experience,” said SHARP program graduate Lori Wolfe. “You won’t be sorry you did, you’ll be SHARP!”

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Theatre Department to Hold Auditions Aug. 25, 27 and 28

August 14, 2012​

The theatre department will hold auditions this month for three upcoming fall productions. More than 50 actors ranging from ages 16 to 60 are needed for a variety of roles in the upcoming productions ‘Urinetown,’ ‘reasons to be pretty‘ and ‘The Importance of Being Earnest.’

“We are offering students and community members the chance to audition for roles in two of the best performing arts pieces to hit the stage in recent years, along with a classic comedy that continues to enthrall audiences with its wit and charm,” said Paul Wickline, chair of the COC theatre department.

Auditions for all three productions will be held at 7 p.m. Aug. 27-28, in the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) Black Box Theatre. A preliminary audition for ‘Urinetown’ will also be held at noon Saturday, Aug. 25.

Written by Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis, the satirical comedy musical ‘Urinetown’ is set in a Gotham-like city where the use of private toilets is banned due to a severe water shortage caused by a 20-year drought. The college’s production of this Tony Award-winning musical about greed, corruption and love will be directed by Whitney Rydbeck, a Pasadena City College theatre professor and guest director.

America’s obsession with beauty is explored in ‘reasons to be pretty’ by Neil LaBute, the hopelessly romantic play which focuses on the relationships of four friends and their search for fulfillment. The production is being directed by COC theatre instructor Susan Hinshaw.

Poking fun at Victorian manners, Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ has delighted audiences worldwide since its debut in 1895.

Valencia High School drama director and COC theatre instructor Stephen Whelan will direct the college’s production of this classic play.

Those auditioning for ‘Urinetown’ are asked to prepare 16 to 32 bars from a musical theatre song. Audition material should be 90 seconds to three minutes in length, and should be accompanied by sheet music in the correct key. No CD accompaniment or singing unaccompanied will be allowed.

Actors auditioning for ‘reasons to be pretty’ and ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ may prepare two contrasting pieces (one period and one contemporary piece) of no more than three minutes in length or may audition with either a period comedic or contemporary piece.

Those auditioning only for ‘reasons to be pretty’ should prepare a contemporary monologue of no more than two minutes. Those auditioning only for ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ should prepare a comedic monologue of no more than two minutes. The monologue should be a period piece.

Anything pre-20th century that demonstrates the actor’s ability to handle heightened language is preferred. If actors don’t have a monologue prepared for either production, they will be asked to do a cold reading from the script.

All those cast will be required to register in a section of the COC course Theatre 190: Theatre Production and/or Music 116: Performance Ensembles for Music Theatre, depending upon the production in which they are cast.

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Invitation to Cover Equipment Installation at CACT Facility

August 9, 2012​

Subject: College of the Canyons Center for Applied Competitive Technology (CACT) new equipment installation.

Event: The Center for Applied Competitive Technology (CACT) at College of the Canyons will have a new Haas VF-4 computer numerical control (CNC) vertical machining center (VMC) with five-axis capability, installed at its location inside Aerospace Dynamics International Inc. (ADI).

This piece of high-powered equipment, valued at approximately $142,000, is being generously provided free of charge by Haas Automation of Oxnard as part of an entrustment agreement that will allow the college free use of the equipment and greatly enhance the training capabilities of the center.

“This machine will allow us to launch a whole new series of trainings designed for local manufacturers, which will integrate computer aided design (CAD), computer aided manufacturing (CAM) and five-axis CNC machining,” said CACT Director Joe Klocko.

Equipment installation crews from Haas are scheduled to arrive at the CACT at approximately 1 p.m. on Friday, with delivery and setup expected to run until approximately 3 p.m.

In subsequent weeks, personnel from ADI will connect the machine to the facility’s electric and air lines and run several functionality tests, before the machine can become fully operational.

About CACT

The CACT assists industry partners in achieving greater operational efficiencies, enhanced productivity and increased organizational performance by providing workforce-training programs, demonstrations of new manufacturing equipment and technologies, as well as access to federal, state and local resources.

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College Receives Grant to Push Students ‘Upward Bound’

August 8, 2012​

College of the Canyons has entered into a partnership with the William S. Hart Union High School District to launch an “Upward Bound” program at the Golden Valley High School (GVHS) campus, designed to increase the number of GVHS students who earn a diploma and move on to pursue their

education at a college or university.

The partnership is the result of a five-year, roughly $1.25 million grant awarded to the college by the U.S. Department of Education meant to assist high school students that have the academic potential to succeed, but who need enrichment and encouragement in order to prepare for and ultimately be successful in college.

Serving 60 students at GVHS each year, the COC Upward Bound program will specifically target Golden Opportunities for Academic Learning and Success (GOALS) program students. The first cohort of participating students has already been identified, and will begin the program in the fall 2012 semester.

To be eligible, students must:

• have completed the eighth grade but have not entered the twelfth grade

• have a demonstrated need for academic support

• be a first generation college student from a low-income household (income that is 150 percent of the poverty-level) or have a high risk of academic failure

• be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, aged 13-19

“We are thrilled to be able to work with our partners at Golden Valley High School and the Hart District to ensure that these students not only graduate from high school, but are prepared to excel when they reach college,” said Dr. Barry Gribbons, the college's assistant superintendent–vice president, institutional development & technology. “This program is especially meaningful to us since a large majority of these students will be the first-generation in their family to attend college.”

Throughout the 2012-13 academic year, students enrolled in the program will be provided with weekly tutoring sessions held at GVHS and led by students from the college’s Mathematics, Engineering and Science Achievement (MESA) program. Also included will be monthly workshops for students and their parents on topics including: how to form an academic plan; the importance of preparing for a postsecondary education; and how to become financially and economically literate.

During the summer months, students will attend a six-week summer institute which will provide additional instruction in the fields of math, laboratory science, literature and both Spanish and English composition. In addition, scheduled field trips, guest speakers and group-wide advisement sessions will help students begin to understand how their academic interests can connect to future academic and career training options.

Throughout the program, participants will also be introduced to various potential career pathways in math, science, engineering and other emerging technologies, through the use of lab space and equipment available at College of the Canyons.

“The college has worked very hard over the last few years to aggressively seek external grant funding that could be used to purchase state-of-the-art equipment in nanotechnology, biotechnology and materials engineering to ensure students experience the use and application of contemporary equipment,” said Omar Torres, dean ofmathematics, sciences and engineering at the college.

As the program gets underway, the college’s Office of Institutional Development and Technology will be responsible for providing an annual Upward Bound program evaluation, designed to help follow up with former students and assess the degree to which the program’s objectives are being fulfilled.

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Emmer to Speak at Chancellor’s Circle Business Symposium

August 8, 2012​

Local management consultant, author and strategic planning expert Marc Emmer will deliver a keynote address on how business owners and entrepreneurs can successfully boost sales and create a competitive advantage, during the fall 2012 College of the Canyons Chancellor’s Circle Business Symposium.

The release of Emmer’s book ‘Intended Consequences: Design the Future You Wish to Create’ was covered by Forbes, CNBC and Technology Today. He also writes a strategy blog that is received by more than 1.000 senior executives each week.

In 2002, Emmer founded Santa Clarita based Optimize Inc. and has built a client list that includes public and mid-market companies in a diverse range of industries, including financial services, food, health care, technology and energy.

Emmer’s presentation will provide attendees with a number of best practices that can be implemented within the current economic climate, along with other useful insights on how to:

• Evaluate the growth strategies that support revenue expansion

• Understand the three primary purchase triggers

• Utilize differentiating strategies that reinforce value

• Induce customers to buy higher margin products and services

• Understand the price wedge and how to balance service, quality and pricing in a post recession environment

Breakfast will be served beginning at 7:30 a.m., followed by the morning’s main presentation.

Registration for the Chancellor’s Circle Business Symposium is free for Chancellor’s Circle members and $20 for non-members. Tickets are available through the COC Foundation.

All reservations must be received by Monday, Sept. 10. Space for this event is limited.

About Chancellor’s Circle

The Chancellor’s Circle is a partnership between College of the Canyons and a diverse group of businesses, community members, non-profit groups, government leaders and others who are committed to strengthening the community by actively supporting strong partnerships.

Through their membership fees, Chancellor’s Circle members help raise funds to assist deserving students in affording college, as well as for special programs that enhance educational access for students.

For more information about the College of the Canyons Chancellor’s Circle or to register to attend the event on Sept. 14, please contact the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3737.

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Invitation to Cover First Medical Lab Technician Pinning Ceremony

August 2, 2012​

Subject: College of the Canyons first medical lab technician (MLT) graduation and pinning ceremony.

Time: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3, 2012

Place: Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, Room 258

Event: The first eight graduates of the College of the Canyons medical lab technician (MLT) program will participate in symbolic pinning ceremony, marking the completion of each student’s training and their advancement into this essential, but often overlooked, branch of the medical health care industry.

The College of the Canyons MLT program is one of only seven such programs in the entire state, and the only program of its kind within the Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara regions.

“Not only do these students represent the first eight graduates from College of the Canyons, they are also among the first MLT graduates in the region,” said Cynthia Dorroh, dean of allied health. “Our program model is ‘saving lives behind the scenes,’ and that’s exactly what these graduating students will now be able to go out and do.”

Inspired by the traditional pinning ceremonies that are held in honor of the college’s graduating class of registered nurses each semester, Friday’s event will feature faculty members from the college’s MLT program presenting each graduate with a commemorative pin.

Students graduating from the program will receive an associate in science degree in MLT and be eligible to sit for the national certification exam needed in order to receive licensing from the California Department of Health Services Laboratory Field Services Branch.

About MLTs

MLT professionals play critical roles in collecting the data and information needed to provide care to patients and/or perform research used in the scientific exploration of many areas throughout the larger medical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. In fact, it’s estimated that approximately 80 percent of all medical diagnosis require lab work as confirmation.

As a result, this emerging career field is experiencing an increased demand for qualified technicians to work in hospitals and biotechnical labs, particularly pharmaceutical labs conducting human research.

A recent report by the U.S. Department of Labor indicates that employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow by 14 percent between 2008 and 2018, a rate faster than the average for all occupations.

Certified MLT professionals often find employment in hospitals, clinics, public health facilities and other commercial laboratories, where their training and communication and research skills are highly valued.

The college’s two-year MLT program prepares students for employment in a variety of these settings, through an integration of program curriculum, classroom lectures, student laboratories and clinical training activities, which help to foster a development of the analytical and problem solving skills required to work throughout the industry.

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​SEPTEMBER

College of the Canyons to Host Body-Mind-Wellness Fair on Oct. 10

September 28, 2012​

Stress, negative body image and domestic violence are just some of the many issues that can plague the body and the mind. In October, College of the Canyons will host the “Body-Mind-Wellness For a Better Life” community resource fair as the kickoff event of a two-month-long seminar series focused on body-mind-wellness and how to maintain it.

“The goal of this series of events is to raise awareness about prevention and treatment options for the many challenges to our well being such asdomestic violence, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, drug and alcohol abuse, sexual assault and post-traumatic stress disorder,” said Sheri Barke, sports and wellness dietitian at the COC Student Health Center and one of the event organizers.

The resource fair will be held from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10 in the Honor Grove, located on the Valencia campus. The event is open to the public and will include live music, food, a fashion show and a raffle drawing.

The acoustic trio “Women on the Move” will perform with its high-energy/folk pop songs.

In celebration of the human body, the Student Nutrition and Wellness Advocates at COC (SNAC) will present the “EveryBODY is Beautiful” fashion show featuring volunteer student models from 1:15 to 1:45 p.m. on the day of the event.

Attendees will also have the chance to decorate a T-shirt in the name of a victim or survivor of domestic violence to include in the college’s ongoing Clothesline Project display. Clothesline Project pins will be on sale for $10 ($5 for students) and will benefit the national Clothesline Project (CLP) program, which addresses violence against women.

The college’s Gamma Beta Phi club will also be accepting toiletries, gift cards to major grocery stores, cleaning products and new clothing to be donated to the Domestic Violence Center of Santa Clarita Valley and the Santa Clarita Child and Family Center.

In the weeks following, guest speakers will address topics such as body image, depression, anxiety and domestic violence. The seminars are as follows:

For more information about the “Body-Mind-Wellness For a Better Life” community resource fair or the lecture series, call Connie Tripp at (661) 362-5931.

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Career Options on Display at College2Career Day on Oct. 13

September 20, 2012​

College of the Canyons will host its third annual College2Career Day event on Oct. 13, providing students an opportunity to explore the multitude of career options available to them.

Featuring a variety of hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations, the event will also provide both students and parents with valuable information about how the college can help them to get on the path to career success.

“College2Career Day is all about helping students make a connection between their education and a future career path,” said Audrey Green, associate vice president of academic affairs. “In order to make the best possible decision about their future, students and parents should both be fully informed about the type of training and education associated with a particular career choice.”

Faculty members, representatives from various academic and career technical education (CTE) programs and industry professionals will be on hand to answer questions and help students explore careers that a college education can help prepare them for.

Attendees looking to get a jumpstart on the process of becoming a COC student will also be able to attend one of several information workshops throughout the day.

College2Career Day will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, in the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located on the college’s Valencia campus (University Center Drive entrance).

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Art Gallery to Exhibit Work of Stacie Jaye Meyer Sept. 29 to Nov. 8

September 20, 2012​

The Art Gallery will exhibit the work of Los Angeles-based artist Stacie Jaye Meyer from Sept. 29 to Nov. 8.

“Stacie is one of the most inspiring artists I know,” said Larry Hurst, director of the COC Art Gallery. “She is multi-talented and fearless. We will be presenting paintings and drawings that are sometimes formal and other times experimental. This is work that pushes the boundaries.”

A classically trained painter, Meyer relies on photography to accurately convey the transience of life and details that tend to go unnoticed, be it the intricacy of lace or the grooves and lines in a bird’s feather pattern, when approaching the canvas.

“I have developed a method that uses both a digital and analogue capture and process,” Meyer says on her website. “A parallel cycle between the eye and hand across a variety of mediums informs this act of capture and recapture, and thus the essence of the image is discovered.”

Meyer studied at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, North American School of Decorative Arts and Otis College of Art and Design. Her work has been exhibited at various studios throughout Southern California and in her home state of Wisconsin.

An artist’s reception is scheduled 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29. Meyer will also discuss her work during a special presentation taking place from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10 in the gallery.

The College of the Canyons Art Gallery is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Those unable to visit the gallery during normal hours are welcome to call (661) 362-3612 to schedule a viewing appointment. All gallery exhibitions and related events are free and open to the public.

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College to Present Annual Jack Oakie Film Series Nov. 15

September 18, 2012​

College of the Canyons will pay tribute to the prolific acting career of Jack Oakie by hosting the annual Jack Oakie Film Series on Thursday, Nov. 15 with a special screening of ‘The Great American Broadcast.’

Award-winning writer and filmmaker Jack Epps Jr., professor and chair of writing for screen and television at the University of Southern California, will introduce the film with a special lecture. Epps co-wrote screenplays for hit films such as ‘Top Gun,’ ‘Legal Eagles’ and ‘The Secret of My Success.’

The film series will take place from 4 to 7:30 p.m. in the COC cinema room, Hasley Hall, Room 101, located on the college’s Valencia campus.

“The College of the Canyons Foundation is very honored and grateful for the continued support the Jack Oakie and Victoria Horne Oakie Charitable Trust Foundation has provided to our students over the years,” said Michele Edmonson, COC Foundation director of development. “We are honored to celebrate the Oakie legacy through this annual film series, which also helps and encourages our students to continue their studies in the arts.”

The Jack and Victoria Horne Oakie Charitable Trust Foundation will award $10,000 in scholarship awards to 10 COC students studying Fine and Performing Arts who attend the screening of the 1941 musical comedy starring Jack Oakie and Alice Faye.

To be considered for a prestigious Oakie scholarship award, students must attend the screening on Nov. 15 and submit a one-page critical review of the film written from the perspective of a scriptwriter, a director, an actor, a comedian, a singer or a dancer to be considered for a prestigious Oakie scholarship award.

“I am very grateful for the Jack Oakie and Victoria Horne Oakie Charitable Foundation for their continued generosity and support of College of the Canyons’ Fine and Performing Arts students,” said Carmen Dominguez, Dean of the Fine and Performing Arts division at the college.

About the Oakies

Jack Oakie’s film career was remarkably prolific during a turbulent time in American history. He worked steadily in the film industry from 1927 through the 1940s, and was on contract at Paramount Studios from 1929 to 1934. His career spanned many decades and encompassed stage, film, radio and later, television. Oakie appeared in 87 films and was nominated for an Academy Away as Best Supporting Actor for his role as the Dictator of Bacteria in the 1940 Charlie Chaplin classic film ‘The Great Dictator.’

Both Jack and Victoria were actors and long time residents of the San Fernando Valley — known for being philanthropists and humanitarians throughout their lives. Continuing their legacy of giving, The Oakie Charitable Foundation trustees remain dedicated to the couple’s wishes: “Give the money to the kids!”

For more information about the College of the Canyons Jack Oakie Film Series or how to apply for an Oakie scholarship award, please contact the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3737.

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Managing Director of College’s Performing Arts Center Resigns

September 18, 2012​

It is a common adage in the entertainment business that, even in the face of unexpected obstacles, “The show must go on.” And that it will for the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons, but without its currentmanaging director, Adam Philipson, who announced hisresignation effective as of Oct. 31.

Philipson, who joined the college in January of 2008, has accepted a position on the East Coast in part to be near family who reside in New York. Philipson, who was born and raised in New York, will become the new CEO of the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, N.J.

“Saying goodbye is bittersweet,” said Philipson. “I am excited about being closer to family and taking on this great opportunity in Red Bank, but I will miss the people at the college, in our school districts and throughout the Santa Clarita Valley.”

As managing director of the PAC, Philipson instantly made his mark on the theater — and the community — by raising the profile of the PAC in the college’s continuing efforts to make the facility the address for the arts, and arts education, in Santa Clarita. In the past five seasons, the PAC has played host to a variety of sold-out shows and has seen a veritable who’s-who of the showbiz world grace the stage — from Art Garfunkel, Kenny Loggins and Michael Bolton, to the Peking Acrobats, Second City and Anthony Bourdain.

Not content to simply book innovative and culturally relevant entertainers, Philipson also assisted in producing events for the PAC, including a chamber version of Daniel Catan’s opera ‘Rapacinni’s Daughter,’ a live orchestration of the silent movie classic ‘Daddy Long Legs’ with members of the Santa Clarita Symphony, as well as the In The Ring series at the Newhall Community Center. Last May, he helped produce ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds,’ a year-long community endeavor that culminated in a celebration with more than 10,000 people attempting to break a world record for the largest drum circle. The event served to cast a national spotlight on the need for arts in education.

“So many people came together to make ‘Rock the Rhythm, Beat the Odds’ happen, but it never would have gotten off the ground without the tremendous support of Remo Belli and Rita Garasi,” said Philipson. “It has been an honor to work so closely with them, and so many other organizations and individuals to accomplish all we have in five short years!”

With the support of the district, he also helped secure numerous grants, including from The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation, the James Irvine Foundation, The Found Penny Foundation, NEA, California Arts Council, Thelma Pearl Howard Foundation, Stratton-Petit Foundation, L.A. County Arts Commission and the Charles Heller Foundation, as well as many corporate partners and sponsors.

Through his leadership, the PAC K-12 Arts Education Outreach program touched the lives of more than 20,000 students last year alone.

“Adam’s tireless efforts and passion for the arts have helped bring in thousands of new fans to the PAC, while at the same time his K-12 Arts Education Outreach Program has meant exposure to the arts for thousands of students throughout the valley.” said COC Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook. “He is an incredibly talented individual. His commitment, drive and innovative spirit will ensure his future growth and success. We wish him the best of times in his future endeavors.”

Philipson joined College of the Canyons from Santa Monica College, where he was an arts administrator following a successful professional acting background that included roles in several Off-Broadway performances, two national tour theatrical productions, and one Broadway role.

A timetable to find a replacement for Philipson has not yet been announced by the college. It is expected that in the coming days the college will announce an internal candidate to manage the day-to-day operations of the PAC until a new director can be found.

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Invitation to Cover Community Garden Ribbon Cutting Tuesday

September 17, 2012​

Subject: College of the Canyons Community Garden ribbon cutting ceremony

Time: 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012

Place: The Aliso Courtyard and Community Garden areas, located between Towsley Hall and Aliso Hall on the south end of the college’s Valencia campus.

Event: College of the Canyons will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Valencia campus’ new Community Garden area, with all college staff, students and community members invited to attend.

Part of the college’s larger Gardens of the Canyons project, the Community Garden area features 26 handmade planter boxes, a water pump irrigation system, compost bins, a storage shed and deck area that can be used for hosting gardening lectures.

Each of the planter boxes has been adopted by a different COC department, club or class, with those groups then able to determine what type of organic fruits, vegetables and herbs they wish to plant each semester.

Five of the garden’s planter boxes have been adopted by the college’s biology department and three have been set aside for use by preschool students enrolled at the College of the Canyons Center for Early Childhood Education (ECE).

As the garden continues to grow, it’s hoped that the area will serve as a holistic center of activity, where faculty, staff and students — of all ages — can work side by side to conduct research and experiments and organize other educational activities.

About Gardens of the Canyons

Providing a place where students, staff and community members can come for inspiration, education and enjoyment through the study of nature, the Gardens of the Canyons is a collection of 21 gardens and natural areas which combine to form one of the college’s most significant scholastic and aesthetic resources.

Fourteen gardens are located at the Valencia campus, and seven are at the Canyon Country campus. At both campuses the gardens are interconnected to form a meandering fitness walk, with signs, maps and trail markers posted along the route. The gardens also serve as outdoor classrooms and laboratories for both students and community members, helping to foster innovation and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of conservation and sustainability.

Since its creation in late 2010, the Gardens of the Canyons project has enhanced the quality of life on both COC campuses, while establishing the college’s gardens as a destination to visit in the Santa Clarita Valley.

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Job Seekers Invited to Resume Rallies, Job Fairs on Sept. 25 and 26

September 11, 2012​

The Career Services department will host its Resume Rally and Job, Career and Intern Fair events to assist students and community members seeking employment this fall. Attendees will get the chance to have resumes revised and edited in preparation for the upcoming job fair, where they can meet with employers looking to fill jobs and internship opportunities.

“The U.S. Labor Department reported that the economy added just 96,000 jobs last month, a lower than average number that reflects just how difficult it is to get a job in a post-recession labor market,” said Anthony Michaelides, director of career services and job placement at the college.

“These events will help make job applicants more competitive and lessen the chances their resumes are overlooked due to commonly made mistakes.”

The COC Resume Rally events will be held at the following dates/times:

Attendees will be able to make use of their updated resumes at the upcoming Job, Career and Intern Fair, being held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the college’s Valencia campus on October 3. More than 20 employers are already scheduled to participate in the event with more expected to register.

Both events are free to all students and community members. However, during the Resume Rally, attendees should be prepared to purchase a one day parking pass for $2, or print out a Resume Rally flyer from the college’s Career Services website and place it on their car’s dashboard on the day of the event.

During the Job, Career and Intern Fair, parking will be free in all of the college’s student lots.

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College Awarded Grants for Plumbing and Nursing Programs

September 5, 2012​​

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The California Community College Chancellor’s Office has awarded College of the Canyons a pair of grants valued at nearly $357,000, which will allow the college to develop its plumbing certificate program and establish a new nurse training partnership with Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital (HMNMH).

Coming in the form of an Industry Driven Regional Collaborative (IDRC) grant, the first award will provide nearly $117,000 to help develop curriculum and build a state-of-the-art plumbing technology lab that meets industry standards for students who enroll in the college’s planned 25-unit plumbing certificate program.

“This program will help train students so they can become qualified plumbing technicians,” said Kristin Houser,dean of career technology education at the college.

“Our plumbing advisory board, comprised of owners of local plumbing companies and supply houses, is very excited about the potential for this program to provide an applicant pool of entry level technicians who possess the skills to work throughout the industry.”

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for plumbers will grow about 26 percent in the next eight years, which is faster than the average for all other occupations.

In addition, the college’s nursing program has received a Responsive Training Fund grant valued at nearly $240,000 that will allow licensed vocational nurses (LVN) at HMNMH to make the transition to become registered nurses (RN).

The collaboration will help prevent the dismissal of more than 30 LVNs currently working at the hospital, maintain the facility’s required RN to patient ratio and provide space in the college’s crowded nursing program.

“This is an exciting and wonderful project,” said Cynthia Dorroh, dean of allied health and public safety. “With changes in regulations most hospitals have laid off all of their LVNs. Henry Mayo chose to collaborate with us and make the commitment to help them gain the additional education needed to become RNs.”

As part of the LVN-to-RN program participating nurses will receive hands-on instruction at the HMNMH facilities beginning this fall, with the program’s groups and activities expected to run through December 2013. All participants completing the program will be eligible for licensure as registered nurses.

“Thanks to this grant, these hardworking nurses won’t lose their jobs but will instead have the opportunity to receive the training they need to help advance their careers,” said Theresa Zuzevich, director of grants development at the college. “It’s our hope that by the end of the program Henry Mayo will be able to add 33 registered nurses to its staff.”

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​OCTOBER

Board of Trustees Adopts Resolution in Support of Proposition 30

October 24, 2012​​

The Santa Clarita Community College District Board of Trustees has adopted a resolution in support of Proposition 30 — The Schools and Local Public Safety Protection Act of 2012, which will appear on the ballot in the upcoming general election, being held Tuesday, Nov. 6.

The action came during the board’s regularly scheduled business meeting on Oct. 10 at the college’s Canyon Country campus. The motion passed 4-1, with board member Scott Wilk voting against the resolution.

Placed on the ballot by the Legislature as part of its 2012-13 state budget plan, Proposition 30, if passed, is expected to generate approximately $6 billion in annual revenue from 2012-13 through 2016-17.

These funds would be directed to a number of state budget items, including K-12 education, community colleges and the realignment of public safety services from state to local governments.

If voters approve Proposition 30, under these provisions California’s community colleges would be in line to receive approximately $210 million in additional funding in 2012-13.

“As publicly elected trustees to this college board, we have a responsibility as stewards of this institution in particular, but also community colleges in general, to try and protect it,” Board of Trustees Member Michele Jenkins said. “We need the California Community College System to be able to continue on and flourish.”

“Community colleges are seeing growing demand from more and more students for access to higher education,” Board of Trustees President Michael Berger said. “Whether they are veterans returning from overseas, or the unemployed looking to launch a new career, or those turned away from UC and CSU campuses, they are looking to us for the classes and support services needed to achieve their goals. But because of state budget cuts handed down over the last few years, we’ve had to turn many of them away.”

If local voters do not approve Proposition 30, the state is expected to enact immediate “trigger cuts” outlined in the 2012-13 budget. Among those would be a roughly $338 million budget cut to the state’s community college system in the middle of the academic year.

For College of the Canyons, those cuts would equate to another $4.6 million budget cut in the 2012-13 academic year.

In enacted, these new funding cuts would come on the heels of several years worth of reductions handed down by the state. In fact, since 2008-09, state funding for College of the Canyons to serve students has been reduced by $16.4 million, from $80.4 million to $64 million.

As a result, the number of full-time equivalent students the college is able to serve has dropped 20 percent, from 16,603 to 12,970, over that same time period.

In addition, the college has reduced the amount of student services and class sections available each semester as a result of the cuts.

College officials also recently announced that COC will not offer a 2013 winter session to students.

In preparation for possible statewide “trigger cuts,” the Board of Trustees approved a 2012-13 budget for College of the Canyons that accounts for the potential $4.6 million mid-year funding reduction.

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Athletic Hall of Fame to Induct Class of 2013 on Jan. 24

October 24, 2012​​

The Athletic Hall of Fame committee has announced the 2013 class of inductees, which includes the 1975 State Championship men’s cross country team, former softball coach Ray Whitten, former men’s basketball player Nick Sanderson, former swimmer Christine (Castellanos) Worby, former softball player Chantal Pershing and the late former baseball player Robert Corrales.

The five inductees will be honored during the Cougar Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency Valencia.

“The 2013 Athletic Hall of Fame is once again a stellar group of inductees,” said Len Mohney, COC dean of athletics and physical education. “The night promises to be a gala affair. We also are excited about announcing the completion of the first phase of the Athletic Hall of Fame permanent site in the West Physical Education building.”

The COC 1975 cross country team made history when it won the college’s first ever state championship. The team was coached by Monty Cartwright.

Ray Whitten led the COC softball team from 1984 to 2007, during which time the team won eight conference championships and competed in 16 regional playoff games.

Men’s basketball player Nick Sanderson played for two seasons from 1989 to 1991. Two-time All-Conference winner, Sanderson was also All-State honoree, Conference MVP and All-Star Game MVP. He went on to have a playing career at Brigham Young University.

Before transferring to the University of Redlands, Christine Worby made waves on the swim and water polo teams for two years. Worby is currently an assistant swim and dive coach at Hart High School, and a first grade teacher at Old Orchard Elementary School.

Former softball player Chantal Pershing was named Conference MVP and All-State during her two seasons on the 1999-00 COC softball team. She transferred to the University of Santa Barbara and played for two seasons with the Gauchos.

Robert Corrales was the first COC baseball player to be named first-team All-State. He played shortstop on the 1973-74 COC baseball team before joining Pepperdine University’s baseball program. Corrales lost his battle with leukemia in 2009.

The College of the Canyons Athletic Hall of Fame induction is a biennial event that celebrates the college’s athletic history and excellence.

Established in 2005, the event has been a vehicle for fundraising for the permanent Hall of Fame, located in the West Physical Education building on the Valencia campus.

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Invitation to Cover Library Expansion Ribbon Cutting

October 23, 2012​​

Subject: Library and The Learning Center (TLC) Ribbon Cutting

Time: 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012

Place: Valencia campus Library, TLC entrance.

Event: The Santa Clarita Community College District Board of Trustees and College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the official completion of the college’s 52,435-square-foot library expansion project.

Attendees will hear comments from a variety of college administrators and library/TLC staff, and have the opportunity to tour the new facility.

About the Library Expansion Project

Along with providing more study space and expanded computer access, the college’s Library Expansion is also the new home of The Learning Center (TLC), which offers students free tutoring in English, math, basic skills and many other subjects.

The new 41,000-square-foot TLC facility — which made up the largest portion of the expansion — includes several large group study areas, each equipped with touch screen whiteboards. Instructors can also record lectures and class activities using the audio/visual “class capture” technology found in some of the new lab areas.

The roughly 10,000-square-foot expansion of the library’s second floor will provide students more computer access and workspace to help them study and prepare for exams. A large “information commons” area has also been devoted entirely to computer access.

Surrounding the information commons area is a lineup of study rooms for students to be able to study, view media and meet with classmates in a quiet setting. A new special collections space has also been dedicated to the display of the college’s historical archives and other rare books and objects donated by the community.

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College Jazz Bands Present ‘Sounds of World War II’ on Nov. 2

October 18, 2012​​

Back by popular demand, this November the College of the Canyons music department will present the fan favorite concert event ‘Musical Jazz Band Sounds of World War II.’

This year’s expanded performance will include performances by the college’s Jazz Combo band and the Studio Jazz Ensemble. The concert will include many popular tunes from the WWII era, including “Moonlight Serenade,” “Sunny Side of the Street” and “Little Brown Jug.”

The groups will perform under the direction of COC music director KC Manji and be accompanied on stage by guest singer, Katherine Lench-Meyering.

Lench-Meyering’s professional experience includes performances at the Hollywood Bowl alongside tenors Sergio Franchi and Placido Domingo in the Tony Award-winning musical ‘Nine’ and in ‘Goya: A Life in Song,’ respectively. She also played the lead role in the fall 2011 COC theatre production of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone.’

“Both of the bands are really looking forward to this concert because it truly represents the big band swing era style, which is the basis for our jazz ensemble,” said Manji. “Katherine’s song-style, stage presence and singing ability will add a nice touch to this year’s concert, that I’m sure all audiences will enjoy.

“Katherine is a treasure, and working with her for this performance has been a fantastic experience,” added Manji.

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Scholarly Presentation to Explore Plight of Primates

October 17, 2012​​

With a goal to educate audiences about the plight of primates around the world — and its far-reaching implications in the areas of economics, science and medicine — College of the Canyons anthropology professor and primate researcher Sarah Etheridge will present the fall 2012 Scholarly Presentation ‘Nothing to Smile About: The Vanishing Primates’ on Nov. 7, at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC).

Beginning with a basic introduction into the world of primates, the presentation will examine primates’ biological importance to society, along with multitude of issues currently threatening the world’s primate population, including deforestation, the consumption of bush meat and the illegal pet and entertainment trade.

“Many people probably don’t know exactly what a primate is,” said Etheridge. “And unless they happen to take an anthropology class here at COC, or attend this event, most will never have the chance to learn about some of these issues, which is the biggest barrier to addressing such problems.”

The second half of the presentation will focus on Etheridge’s own research and personal experience studying primates, both in captivity and in their natural environments, combined with a discussion about the importance of primates to the human population.

“My work is very economics based, with many applications to the fields of international business, sociology, psychology and medicine,” said Etheridge. “Whether you realize it or not, primates are important to everybody, and we need to be invested in making sure they don't go extinct. Unfortunately, humans and primates have never had a very symbiotic relationship.”

Also, included in this section of the program will be a multi-media presentation depicting the many ways in which primates are exploited, harmed and even killed through a number of illegal, but seemingly commonplace practices, taking place throughout the world.

“Some of the images will be graphic,” said Etheridge. “But the reality is that these threats to primates are out there — it’s just that most of us are too disconnected from the issues to be able to do anything about them.”

Etheridge will close by sharing a message of hope with audience, along with tips and information about what consumers can do to help quell the many threats facing primates today.

Etheridge holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Political Science from Texas A&M University and a Master of Arts in Anthropology from California State University, Fullerton (CSUF). She is currently working toward completion of her Ph.D. in Public Heath — Epidemiology.

In addition to teaching a variety of anthropology courses at COC, Etheridge has been a driving force behind the college’s move to adopt a more well-rounded and conservation minded anthropology curriculum.

“College of the Canyons has been tremendous in supporting me to help make some of the issues I’ll be discussing, more of a focal point in the curriculum,” said Etheridge.

Etheridge’s professional experience also includes time spent researching wild chimpanzees in Africa; working with chimpanzees who know sign language at the Chimpanzee and Human Communication Institute at Central Washington University; helping to develop ecotourism and enrichment activities for orphaned orangutans in Borneo, Indonesia; and service as the Santa Ana Zoo’s primate enrichment coordinator.

The research Etheridge performed on wild chimpanzees in Africa served as the basis for her book ‘Bushmeat in Uganda and Cameroon: An Analysis of Human Development Levels to Aid Chimpanzee Conservation.’ She has also been published in the International Journal of Arts and Sciences.

When not teaching, performing research or working with primates, Etheridge also serves as the West Hollywood coordinator for rescued pet adoptions through Best Friends Animal Society.

The College of the Canyons Scholarly Presentation ‘Nothing to Smile About: The Vanishing Primates’ will take place at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, on the main stage of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC).

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Invitation to Cover Artist’s Reception at City Hall Art Gallery

October 16, 2012​

Subject: Artist’s Reception for College of the Canyons students featured in the art exhibit “Visit Santa Clarita: Illustrated Travel Posters”

Time: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2012

Place: City of Santa Clarita City Hall, First Floor Art Gallery, located at 23920 Valencia Blvd.

Event: The City of Santa Clarita’s City Council, Arts Commission and Arts & Events Office will host an artist’s reception for the exhibition “Visit Santa Clarita: Illustrated Travel Posters,” which is currently on display at City Hall.

For the exhibit, COC graphic and multimedia design students were asked to design posters about the many activities and amenities the City of Santa Clarita has to offer. Their talent and skills — not to mention their hometown spirit — is evident in the series of vibrant posters included in the display.

The body of work — created with computer illustration software — derives inspiration from vintage, modern and contemporary styles and demonstrates a wide variety of traditional illustration techniques such as watercolor, pastel and oil painting.

During the reception, attendees will get the chance to meet the talented students behind the artwork and chat with other art enthusiasts. Light appetizers will be offered.

At approximately 7 p.m., College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne Van Hook will formally introduce the collection to City officials.

The exhibit will be on display through Nov. 16, 2012.​

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Foundation to Honor Barry and Pati Gump with Silver Spur Award

October 12, 2012​​

As the driving forces behind the well-known, multi-generational family business Andy Gump Inc., Barry and Pati Gump have always worked to ensure that their personal and professional success could be shared to help build a stronger community and make a difference in the lives of those most in need. Passionate supporters of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and countless other CF related projects and charities, the Gumps have also provided resources and support for a wide range of non-profit organizations and events throughout the Santa Clarita and San Fernando valleys, continually building a strong reputation for their willingness to help others.

Because of this, the College of the Canyons Foundation has named Barry and Pati Gump recipients of the college’s Silver Spur Community Service Award for 2013.

“Barry and Pati embody the spirit of service that is unique to our community. They work quietly behind the scenes to support entities throughout Santa Clarita, and make a profound difference in the many lives they touch,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook.

“Their dedicated service stems from their genuine interest in the welfare of others, and a heartfelt generosity that is rarely seen today. They are most deserving of the Silver Spur award, and we appreciate this opportunity to honor their service.”

For nearly 25 years Barry and Pati Gump have been active supporters of several key projects and programs at College of the Canyons, helping to sponsor a variety of fund raising events and initiatives — including the college’s University Center capital campaign — and donating sanitation and fencing services for the college’s various athletics facilities and ongoing construction projects.

“We are particularly grateful for their support at College of the Canyons,” added Van Hook. “Barry and Pati played an integral role in making the dream of the University Center a reality. Because of their investment, they have opened the doors of opportunity for those who want to pursue their educational goals closer to home in the Santa Clarita Valley.”

However, the couple’s true passion stems from their commitment to advancing the science and treatment of cystic fibrosis.

Having lost their own daughter, Cherilyn, to CF in 1970, the Gumps' charity work in this area has largely been driven by the dream that no parent will ever have to lose their child to this ugly disease.

For the last 30 years Barry has served on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) National Board of Trustees as a National Trustee, annually lobbying before the U.S. Congress and delivering speeches in an effort to raise funds to find a cure. He is also a former president of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Southern California Chapter, and continues to serve on the Board.

In 1980, Barry and Pati joined forces with other CF supporters and local Dodgers fans to start the Los Angeles Dodgers 65 Roses Sports Club (the name “65 Roses” stems from the way many children with CF pronounce the disease).

The project allowed fans of the Dodgers to get involved with CF fundraising efforts by pledging to donate $10 for every home run the team hit. The Dodgers 65 Roses Sports Club soon grew to become one of the leading clubs in the nation, raising significant dollars for CF care and research and attracting the involvement of many well-known sports figures.

Barry and Pati have also worked with the national sorority Beta Sigma Phi to raise nearly $2.6 million for CF, and are annual participants in the CFF’s Great Strides National Walk Event.

In 1985, Barry and Pati were presented the CFF’s Breath of Life Award, recognizing the couple’s significant volunteerism and fundraising efforts. To date, the couple has helped raise millions of dollars and improved the lives of thousands of families living with CF.

Throughout the years, the Gumps have also remained dedicated to serving their community, having generously supported local non-profit organizations including the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita, Michael Hoefflin Foundation, the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Foundation (HMNMH) and SCV Child & Family Center.

The annual College of the Canyons Silver Spur Celebration is traditionally held at a historic museum, club or well-known Los Angeles landmark each spring — and is considered to be one of the community’s most popular and elegant evening events.

The 2013 Silver Spur Celebration will take place Saturday, March 2, 2013, at the Globe Theater located inside Universal Studios Hollywood.

The event begins at 6 p.m. and the dress code is “black tie optional.” The evening includes live entertainment, a studio tour, a cocktail party on the park’s British themed Baker Street and an inspired cuisine by Wolfgang Puck Catering. This year’s event is being co-chaired by Randy and Mitzi Moberg, members of the COC Foundation Board of Directors.

For more information about the 2013 Silver Spur Award Ceremony, or to purchase tickets or become an event sponsor, call the College of the Canyons Foundation at (661) 362-3737.

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Walk-Through Flu-Shot Event at Valencia Campus on Nov. 16

October 10, 2012​​

The L.A. County Department of Public Health, College of the Canyons and L.A. County Sheriff’s Department are teaming up for the seventh consecutive year to conduct a flu immunization Point of Dispending (POD) on Friday, Nov. 16, 2012.

The flu-immunization POD will be held in the East Physical Education building on the College of the Canyons Valencia campus, located off Rockwell Canyon Road. Parking will be in adjacent lots and the vaccine will be dispensed from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or until the vaccine lasts.

“Hundreds of community members show up every year and we expect the same turn out for this year’s flu POD,” said Bruce Battle, managing director at the college.

Inoculations against the seasonal flu at the POD are provided free of charge and will be dispensed at this event in anticipation of an active flu season.

In addition, the flu POD also tests the community’s Cities Readiness Initiative (CRI) response during a bioterrorism attack or potential pandemic. The purpose of the CRI plan is to treat an impacted, mass population with medications within a short time period.

The POD is designed to operate under a command structure required by the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS), which have been established to provide effective management of multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional emergencies in California. Police, fire and other first responder agencies use SEMS/NIMS procedures regularly because the system improves coordination and communications and reduces resource duplication during complex responses. The theory is that with more agencies and volunteers learning the specifics of SEMS/NIMS, the more efficient all complex response activities will become.

Each year, additional volunteers are brought into the organizational structure of the POD to learn the responsibilities of various key positions. As a result, more people are trained each year to assume the various responsibilities within the emergency structure. The hope is to develop a pool of people within the community who can step in and run multiple PODs if a future situation were to warrant that. More than 150 volunteers from the participating agencies help coordinate the event each year.

The college’s Valencia campus is conveniently located near freeways and major arteries so that, in a real world bioterrorism event, large numbers of people could be inoculated very efficiently.

COC nursing students administer most of the vaccinations and EMT students are part of the pre-screening process as well, giving students valuable, hands-on experience from the POD.

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Canyon Country Campus to Host Fall Star Party on Oct. 19

October 5, 2012​​

What do gas giants, hot-super-Earths and ice giants have in common? They are all considered exoplanets — Earth-size planets that orbit stars — and will be the focus of the College of the Canyons Canyon Country campus’ fall semester Star Party in October.

The fall Star Party will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, in the Canyon Country campus’ Carl A. Rasmussen Amphitheater. Admission is free of charge and open to the public.

Attendees will also be able to view gas giants, nebulae and distant galaxies through several high-powered telescopes that will be available. Members of The Local Group Astronomy Club of Santa Clarita will also set up telescopes aimed at any celestial bodies that are visible, which attendees can view.

“If you live in the city, a clear starry sky is a rare sight to behold,” said Ryan Theule, dean of the Canyon Country campus.

COC astronomy professor Teresa Ciardi will create a scale model of the solar system with the help of children in the audience. In relation to Howell’s discussion, she will also demonstrate how planets orbiting other stars can be found.

“This is a rare opportunity for the astronomically inclined to stargaze with a NASA scientist,” said Ciardi. “I’m very excited to hear more about the Kepler Mission from someone directly involved with the project.”

Though some seating will be provided, Star Party attendees are encouraged to get to campus early with blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets, to enjoy a festive outdoor atmosphere as the sun begins to set and the night sky emerges.

Food and beverages will also be available for purchase at the event through Lamppost Pizza, operator of the Canyons Café on the Canyon Country campus. A portion of the concession sales from the Star Party are being donated to the Dr. Ram Manvi Memorial Scholarship to benefit students who are majoring in the fields of mathematics, science or engineering technology.

Dr. Manvi was the former Dean of Math, Science and Engineering at College of the Canyons and was instrumental in launching the campus’ initial Star Party event in 2009.

About Steve Howell

Steve Howell is a deputy project scientist at the NASA Ames Research Center and works for the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO) in Tucson, Arizona. He was recently made a member of the National Academy of Sciences panel on NASA’s Constellation System.

His research focuses on variable and binary stars, charge coupled device (CCD) detectors and ultra-high precision photometry. Howell developed the practice of differential photometry using CCD’s, a technique that is considered the highest precision photometry achieved to date in ground-based exoplanet transit detection.

About the Kepler Mission

Launched in March 2009, the Kepler’s space mission goal was to find Earth-size planets around other stars.

The Kepler Mission surveys Earth’s region of the Milky Way galaxy to discover these exoplanets and help determine how many stars in our galaxy share these characteristics. According to NASA’s website, “results from this mission will allow us to place our solar system within the continuum of planetary systems in the Galaxy.”

So far, Kepler has confirmed the existence of 77 planets. More than 2,000 others have been detected and are awaiting confirmation.

The Kepler Mission is a project under NASA’s Discovery Program, which is a series of low-cost, highly focused space missions that explore the Solar System.

For more information about the College of the Canyons fall Star Party, please call the Canyon Country campus at (661) 362-3801.

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Free One-Man Show ‘Abraham Lincoln: American Underdog’ on Oct. 7

October 5, 2012​​

With the success of the book ‘Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter’ by Seth Grahame-Smith and the upcoming release of the highly anticipated Steven Spielberg film starring Daniel Day Lewis as the 16th president, it is no wonder that Abraham Lincoln has been in the spotlight.

But even 150 years after Lincoln’s assassination, there are still many little known facts about his life and presidency. TV personality Johnny Dark will reveal The Great Emancipator’s many hidden secrets in his one-man show ‘Abraham Lincoln: American Underdog’ at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, 2012 at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons.

This performance is free and open to the public. Admission will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors will open at 3 p.m. and seating will be at 3:30 p.m.

“This will be a very entertaining and educational performance sure to be enjoyed by all ages,” said Adam Philipson, PAC managing director. “Dark’s show is inspirational and full of fascinating new insights about Lincoln’s life and challenging presidency.”

Known as the “Oldest CBS Page” on the ‘Late Show with David Letterman,’ Dark has been credited with more than 100 guest star TV appearances in programs including ‘The Secret Life of the American Teenager.’

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SBDC to Host Fall Semester Young Entrepreneurs Program

October 4, 2012​​

Young entrepreneurs with great ideas and the gumption needed to implement them are invited to participate in this fall’s Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP) offered by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at College of the Canyons.

Targeting young people between the ages of 14 and 27, YEP offers business consulting and business training programs delivered through a variety of outreach and delivery methods, including websites, blogs, social networking sites, virtual reality games, youth-oriented trainers and business simulation products.

YEP provides participants the chance to hone their entrepreneurial skills by working alongside seasoned professionals at workshops and other business consulting functions. Participants will also have the opportunity visit local businesses and experience first hand what other young entrepreneurs are doing in the real world.

The program’s goal is to guide and encourage young people to consider careers in self-employment and small business ownership, along with developing management and problem solving skills that will assist them in any future career path.

“Over the course of the semester there will be 19 interactive workshops held at a variety of locations throughout the Santa Clarita, Antelope and San Fernando Valleys,” said Steve Tannehill, Executive Director of the SBDC. “These workshops will be focused on a variety of entrepreneurial topics and provide young entrepreneurs with invaluable instruction to help them in their burgeoning careers.”

This year, YEP program participants will also have the opportunity to compete in a statewide business plan contest. On Wednesday, Dec. 5, the SBDC will host a local business plan contest inside the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

Local winners will be awarded cash prizes and then be entered into a statewide competition offering up to an additional $10,000.

The YEP program is sponsored by the Business & Entrepreneurship Center hosted by Cuesta College and the California Community College’s Economic and Workforce Development program.

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College of the Canyons Theatre Presents Satirical Musical ‘Urinetown’

October 3, 2012​​

The Theatre Department will stage a production of the Tony-award winning satirical comedy musical ‘Urinetown’ during the month of October at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center.

Addressing universal themes such as greed, corruption and love, ‘Urinetown’ is set in a Gotham-like city where the use of private toilets is banned due to a severe water shortage caused by a 20-year drought.

Written by Greg Kotis, ‘Urinetown’ was nominated for 10 Tony Awards in 2002 and won Best Director, Best Original Score and Best Book of a Musical. Kotis came up with the idea for ‘Urinetown’ while he was traveling though Europe on a budget and encountered pay toilets.

“‘Urinetown’ has probably the most unfortunate and yet oddly appropriate title of any other musical in recent memory,” said COC Theatre department chair Paul Wickline. “It’s satirical but cheerfully inoffensive and original.”

Wickline describes the musical as “a Dickensian tale with elements of ‘Grapes of Wrath,’ the Marx Brothers and ‘Three Penny Opera’ with a nod to many other famous musicals.”

“Don’t let the title fool you,” said Whitney Rydbeck, the play’s director. “It’s not a show about toilet humor. It takes a somewhat unpleasant premise, and turns it completely upside down, producing a marvelously witty and entertaining evening of contemporary musical theatre.”

The college’s production features familiar and new faces. Clinton Sherwood, a Hart High School graduate who recently completed a national tour of ‘Cats,’ plays the role of Bobby Strong. COC music student Caitlin Thomas plays Hope Caldwell, Bobby’s love interest and the heroine of the musical. COC theatre students Andrew Fish, Linda Giron and Sam Gullo play Mr. Caldwell, Little Sally and Officer Lockstock, respectively,

The production will run for two weekends. Performances will be at 8 p.m. October 19-20, 26-27 and at 2 p.m. October 21 and 28. Tickets are $6 for students/seniors and $12 for adults.

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Invitation to Cover College’s Job, Career and Intern Fair

October 2, 2012​​

Subject: College of the Canyons Job, Career and Intern Fair

Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2012

Place: COC Valencia campus Student Center/Cafeteria/Staff Dining Room

Event: Providing local job seekers with employment opportunities in an array of industries and career fields, College of the Canyons and The Signal newspaper will present the bi-annual COC Job, Career and Intern Fair.

The event is free and open to the public, and will feature the presence of employers and employment service organizations including:

In addition to entry, middle and upper level employment opportunities, job fair attendees can also explore a variety of paid internship opportunities available through the college’s Cooperative Work Experience Education (CWEE) program.

Event organizers have also scheduled a series of 50-minute workshops containing tips, techniques and information for job seekers to utilize on their path to employment.

​NOVEMBER

Invitation to Cover EOPS/CARE, CalWORKS Holiday Book Festival

November 30, 2012​​

Subject: College of the Canyons EOPS/CARE & CalWORKs 8th Annual Holiday Book Festival

Time: 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, 2012

Place: COC Valencia campus Student Support Center, located behind Towsley Hall, on the south end of campus.

Event: As the culminating event of the COC Extended Opportunities Programs & Services (EOPS)/Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) & CalWORKs department’s holiday book drive, COC staff members will present children of the college’s EOPS/CARE & CalWORKs students with new books at this year’s Holiday Book Festival.

As the children select their books, college staff members will be on hand to cook pancakes and serve a holiday themed breakfast.

The event will also include strolling musicians and story telling, with all EOPS/CARE & CalWORKs students and their children and community supporters and their families invited to participate in the day’s festivities.

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Interior Design Students Decorate Home for Holiday Home Tour

November 28, 2012​​

Candle stands fashioned out of recycled jam jars. A Christmas tree made of cardboard tube. One thousand cranes made of discarded print paper. Nothing seemed impossible in the hands of the 20 College of the Canyons students selected to decorate a home for the 32nd annual Holiday Home Tour.

Hosted by the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital’s Home Tour League, the Holiday Home Tour raises funds for women’s services by showcasing local homes that have been professionally decorated for the holiday season. This year, a team of COC interior design students transformed the home of Michael and Sharon Higgins into a non-traditional winter wonderland.

“Red, green and gold are the usual colors associated with the holidays but the students chose a more adventurous departure by opting for a more exquisite color scheme,” said Dorothy Minarsch, chair of the interior design and architecture department at the college.

Separated into teams to decorate different rooms, students executed their “Peacock Medley Winterland” concept by using the colors bronze, gold, marine blue, turquoise and purple. “Although the rooms are unified in color, they reflect each room leader’s creative flare and design solutions,” said Minarsch.

With sustainability in mind, many of the decorations were made using recycled or repurposed materials such as bark, twigs, cardboard and broken mirror pieces. Two peacock lamps made from plaster and coat hangers, specifically designed by Jolene Lain, light up the master bedroom.

“It was a wonderful experience that helped me fine-tune my career ideas,” said Lain, who is three classes away from earning her associate degree in interior design. “Once I become a licensed interior designer and start my own business, I’d like to specialize in holiday designing.”

Lain is very happy with the end result of the project, which students started working on in June. “It is a special privilege and honor to present all our hard work to the community.”

To view the Higgins home and the other homes participating in this year’s Holiday Home Tour, a holiday gala event will be held on Friday, Nov. 30 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Holiday Home Tour will be held on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Chancellor’s Circle Breakfast Briefing Scheduled for Dec. 7

November 26, 2012​​

With an eye toward the fast approaching new year, local attorney Brian E. Koegle will present an up-to-date overview of the ever-changing laws that affect “Doing Business in California,” during the fall 2012 College of the Canyons Chancellor’s Circle Breakfast Briefing.

The presentation will include a look ahead at anticipated court rulings and legislation that will affect the employment landscape in 2013, along with new state and federal employment laws that could wind up costing employers hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Koegle will present tips and information for business owners interested in taking the necessary steps to help ensure compliance with these laws, in order to avoid costly fines and/or litigation fees.

“Many small businesses owners don’t have the time to stay on top of all of the changes in the law,” said Koegle. “However, even one, small violation could be financially catastrophic for a smaller company, making it essential for business owners to ensure they are armed with the latest information and ‘best practices’ to avoid those mistakes.”

Breakfast will be served beginning at 7:30 a.m., followed by the morning’s main presentation at 8:15 a.m.

Registration for the Chancellor’s Circle Breakfast Briefing is free for Chancellor’s Circle members and $15 for non-members. Tickets are available through the COC Foundation.

All reservations must be received by Friday, Nov. 30. Space for this event is limited.

About the Presenter

Mr. Koegle is a partner in the employment and labor law department of Poole & Shaffery, LLP, focusing on labor and employment law.

He provides counsel to employers in a large number of industries with regard to hiring practices, employment contracts, wage and hour issues, compensation, and discipline and termination matters.

Koegle has represented employers in union grievance, arbitration and dispute resolution procedures and has defended a wide range of employment discrimination and fair employment practice cases.

In addition, he has assisted employers in the design, drafting, modification and implementation of personnel policies, procedures and employee handbooks and with performance of personnel policy audits.

He has written several published articles on labor and employment-related matters and is a frequent speaker on these issues.

About the Chancellor’s Circle

The Chancellor’s Circle is a partnership between College of the Canyons and a diverse group of businesses, community members, non-profit groups, government leaders and others who are committed to strengthening the community by actively supporting strong partnerships.

Through their membership fees, Chancellor’s Circle members help raise funds to assist deserving students in affording college, as well as for special programs that enhance educational access for students.

For more information about the College of the Canyons Chancellor’s Circle or to register to attend the Breakfast Briefing event on Dec. 7, please contact the COC Foundation at (661) 362-3737.

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Art Gallery Presents ‘Art of Album Cover’ Exhibit Nov. 29 to Dec. 13

November 19, 2012​​

​As the final exhibition of 2012, the College of the Canyons Art Gallery will present the exhibition ‘Vinyl/The Art of the Album Cover’ beginning Thursday, Nov. 29.

Providing a trip down memory lane for music lovers from the “vinyl” era, this exhibition will feature a casual look at the artistic evolution of the LP (Long Playing) album cover, primarily focusing on covers produced from the late 1950s through the 1990s.

Examples will include iconic images as well as lesser known, yet meaningful, album covers from artists including Beatles, Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin, the Eagles and many more.

Other items included in the exhibition will range from vintage turntables, record players and picture discs, to the precursor to what is now called the album cover — the 78-RPM collection set.

“For anyone who remembers these distinct eras of music, this will be a walk down memory lane,” said Larry Hurst, director of the COC art gallery. “And for those new to album cover art, this exhibition will prove to be both exciting and thought provoking, as visitors view examples of good and bad album cover designs and witness the power that an aesthetically pleasing design can have in marketing a product.”

The exhibition ‘Vinyl/The Art of the Album Cover’ will be on display at the COC Art Gallery from Thursday, Nov. 29 through Thursday, Dec. 13.

A gallery reception and “record hop” featuring music and light refreshments will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday. Nov. 29.